Teen Jailed Over Brutal Knife Attacks on Teens in Swindon and Royal Wootton Bassett
A 17-year-old boy was sentenced today (21/04) at Swindon Crown Court for stabbing two teenage boys in separate violent attacks.
Life-Changing Knife Injuries
The horrific incidents happened on October 29, 2022, at the Link Centre in Swindon and on New Year’s Day 2023 in Royal Wootton Bassett.
- The first victim, just 14, suffered life-altering wounds to his arms.
- The second, aged 15, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Police Warn Youth Over Knife Crime Dangers
Supt Phil Staynings, who leads Partnership, Prevention and Neighbourhoods in Swindon, condemned the attacks and urged young people to rethink carrying knives.
“You are not only putting others and the people around you, such as your family, at risk, but you’re also putting yourself at great risk of harm by being involved in that lifestyle.”
“Carrying knives can have an impact that lasts a lifetime, and while walking away is often the hardest thing to do, it is the safest.”
“I would encourage young people involved in that lifestyle to not be afraid to ask for help because there are people out there who can help you.”
Police Fight Back With Education and Enforcement
Supt Staynings revealed a multi-pronged strategy to tackle knife crime, including:
- School presentations warning about knife dangers.
- A public health partnership action plan targeting early intervention.
- Enforcement operations like knife test purchases, section 60 stop-and-search orders, and property closures.
“Knife crime can destroy lives and fracture communities,” he said. “It’s a top priority for the force, but it takes more than police alone.
“We need a long-term, joined-up approach with partners and parents to educate youths on the deadly risks of carrying knives.”
