Peter Glenser KC and Becky Jane, instructed by Choi Cheng of VCW Law solicitors successfully represented the Defendant charged with attempted murder at Teesside Crown Court.
The Defendant had admitted to stabbing his friend, the Complainant, with a samurai sword to the chest/shoulder area, impaling the axillary artery. Expert evidence was heard from two psychiatrists on the issue of whether, due to the Defendant’s diagnosis of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (‘C-PTSD’), he suffered a flashback at the relevant time, and whether this disinhibited his ability to form the requisite intent. The Defendant having been significantly under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the relevant time added a further layer of complexity to this central issue.
The Defendant was acquitted of attempted murder and convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Sentencing the Defendant on 3rd December 2024, the Recorder of Teesside Crown Court, HHJ Laird KC was able to move downwards from the 12-year starting point in acknowledging, in particular, the Defendant’s young age (21 both at the time of the offence and at sentence) and his significant mental health conditions.
A sentence of 10 years was imposed with an extended licence period of 3 years.