Gabriel Calin has been locked up for over six years after fleeing the UK to dodge arrest for a brutal attack.
Late-Night Attack Shocks Town
In the early hours of Tuesday 16 April 2019, a teenage woman was walking home along Lower Stone Street when she noticed a stranger following her.
She slowed down to let him pass. But the man turned down a side road. Moments later, on Loose Road, he suddenly appeared right beside her.
Brutal Punches Leave Victim Hospitalised
The attacker spoke briefly, then exploded with rage, grabbing her hand before landing a savage punch to her face.
The victim hit the ground as he slammed two more powerful blows into her face. Fighting back, she screamed and kicked until he fled.
Police say she suffered serious facial injuries and needed urgent hospital treatment.
Manhunt Leads to Extradition From Romania
Kent cops launched a detailed probe, piecing together CCTV footage and door-to-door inquiries.
Calin was identified after hospital records showed he had treated a hand injury—the result of his savage assault—before skipping the country on 21 April.
Found with no fixed address, Calin was tracked down in Romania. Kent Police secured his extradition and on Wednesday 29 July 2020, he was flown back to the UK in custody.
Guilty Verdict and Heavy Sentence
Calin pleaded not guilty to attempted wounding with intent at Maidstone Crown Court. But after a three-day trial, a jury found him guilty on Thursday 1 July 2021.
On Wednesday 13 April 2022, the 29-year-old was handed a hefty sentence: six years and one month behind bars.
Detective Constable Andy Julier said: “This was a despicable and cowardly attack on a young woman. The force behind Calin’s punches was so severe he injured his own hand.”
“The investigation was complex but thorough. I’m glad we brought him to justice for this horrific crime.”
“The victim continues to endure dental treatment and her quality of life has been hugely affected. I applaud her bravery and thank witnesses who helped us crack the case.”
