Home / Crime and Justice / Viking Hoard Thief Stabs Friend Over Stolen Gold
Viking Hoard Thief Stabs Friend Over Stolen Gold
5 May
Summary
- A metal detectorist jailed for Viking hoard theft stabbed his friend.
- The attack occurred after an argument about stolen gold and jewellery.
- The victim suffered severe injuries including a brain bleed and epilepsy.
George Powell, who was previously imprisoned for his role in stealing a £3m Viking hoard, has pleaded guilty to stabbing his friend, Lewis Prosser. The violent incident took place in October 2025 at a caravan site in Paignton, Devon. Powell had been released on license for the earlier theft of 300 Viking coins and gold jewellery, discovered in 2015 and valued at £3m, but was on the run for failing to attend a sentencing hearing.
An argument erupted between Powell and Prosser in the early hours of October 18, reportedly over Prosser's accusations that Powell had stolen gold and jewellery from him. During the altercation, Prosser was repeatedly struck with a knife and a baton, sustaining a brain bleed, fractured jaw, fractured ankle, and later developing epilepsy. He spent ten days in hospital and has experienced devastating effects from his injuries.
Powell claimed self-defense, but the judge rejected this, noting the brutal nature of the attack. He was sentenced to 20 months in prison, to be added to his existing sentence for failing to repay the value of the hoard. A restraining order was also issued, prohibiting contact with Prosser for ten years. The original Viking hoard, discovered in Herefordshire, was one of the largest treasure finds in British history.
