Mahjoub El Hamri, 52, of no fixed address, visited the shared house in Beaconsfield Road at around midday on October 16, 2021, and let himself in with a key despite no longer living there.
Planning to use the showers and eat lunch in the residents’ communal area, he became aggressive towards a resident using the kitchen and began throwing items around and making threats.
He then pulled a large kitchen knife from a drawer and stabbed the victim – a 36-year-old man – in the upper arm, causing a 5cm deep stab wound that required surgery.
El Hamri then fled the scene in his car, which was caught on CCTV leaving the area.
Later that day he was stopped by police as he drove along the A23, arrested and remanded in custody until his trial at Hove Crown Court on Tuesday (March 1).
He pleaded guilty to wounding without intent and was jailed for 14 months.
Investigating officer Rose Horan said: “This was a violent, unprovoked attack in the victim’s own home, after El Hamri had entered uninvited.
“Even though this was a distressing incident for the victim, he expressed a wish at court to forgive the suspect, who was unknown to him. He was fortunate not to have suffered permanent nerve damage to his arm.
“I would like to thank him for his bravery and support in helping bring El Hamri to justice, alongside everybody who helped with the investigation.”
