Virgin Ben Moynihan jailed for revenge attacks on women

Police found letters from Moynihan in which he wrote "all women need to die"

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An 18-year-old who attempted to murder three women in revenge for the fact he was still a virgin has been jailed for 21 years.

Ben Moynihan, of Knightstone Court, Portsmouth, was found guilty in January of stabbing the women as they walked home alone.

They were attacked in separate incidents in Portsmouth last summer.

Moynihan must serve an additional five years on licence after his sentence ends, Winchester Crown Court heard.

During his trial, jurors heard Moynihan had difficulties finding a girlfriend and losing his virginity.

'Chilling and disturbing'

Police found a note which read "all women needs to die" and a journal containing descriptions of violence Moynihan dubbed his "diary of evil".

They also uncovered letters in which Moynihan said his frustration at not being able to lose his virginity had led to the attacks.

He wrote: "I was planning to murder mainly women as an act of revenge because of the life they gave me, I'm still a virgin at 17," he wrote.

Ben Moynihan sent a letter, including a picture, to police asking them to arrest him.

In a video found on his laptop, Moynihan had filmed recorded messages in which he also made threats against women.

Sentencing, Mr Justice Jay said Moynihan had an autistic spectrum disorder and a "gross lack of empathy" for his victims.

"The offences were planned and premeditated," he said.

"The contents of your computers were as chilling as they were disturbing."

The judge also imposed an extended licence of five years to be served at the end of Moynihan's sentence.

'Flashbacks'

Moynihan stabbed a 20-year-old, a 45-year-old and a 66-year-old woman in June and July last year.

The court heard the youngest victim, who said it took weeks before she could go out alone, often had flashbacks of the attack, and no longer trusted strangers.

The knife Ben Moynihan used to stab three women in the chest and breast

Moynihan's third victim, now 67, told the court her life had been "turned upside down".

She said she was a strong, confident woman, now left struggling with day to day activities like going to the shops.

Both women said they hoped Moynihan got the help he needed but one said "once he is behind bars, I'll finally be able to relax".