Knife attacker locked up for 15 years after horrific 20-wound assault
Brutal stabbing in Rushenden shocks community
John Brazil has been jailed for 15 years after stabbing a man more than 20 times in a savage attack. The 23-year-old launched the vicious assault at the victim’s home in Rushenden in November 2018.
The victim, an old acquaintance, suffered serious injuries including a stab wound to the chest. He was airlifted to hospital and needed urgent treatment but has thankfully made a full recovery.
From nightclub mates to violent enemies
Brazil and the victim had known each other for about a decade but hadn’t been in touch for years. They bumped into each other by chance at a Sittingbourne nightclub on the night of November 10th and spent the evening drinking together. Later, Brazil went to the victim’s house where their night took a dark turn.
Shortly after midday the following day, a dispute broke out. Brazil suddenly grabbed a knife and repeatedly stabbed the victim over 20 times during a brutal attack in the living room.
Manhunt and arrest after violent rampage
The victim managed to flee and seek help, while Brazil aggressively followed before vanishing. CCTV caught the tense moments as the victim sought a neighbour’s aid. Despite numerous witnesses identifying Brazil, he went into hiding.
Kent Police made him one of their Most Wanted and mounted a public appeal. Three and a half weeks later, officers arrested Brazil at a bedsit in Buxton, Derbyshire.
Police condemn ‘volatile and dangerous’ attacker
“Brazil subjected his victim to a savage attack which left him with serious injuries that required urgent medical attention,” said Detective Constable Andrew Jobes.
“His willingness to suddenly and repeatedly use a weapon on a person he had been socialising with shows him to be a volatile and highly dangerous offender. There can be no tolerance for people who choose to use a weapon to assault another individual.”
“I am pleased we secured a strong custodial sentence which means Brazil is unable to harm other innocent members of the public.”
