Armed Knife Attack and Arson Land Man Behind Bars for Over Six Years
Michael Bumstead’s Violent Rampage
Michael Bumstead, 21, from Dengemarsh Road, Romney Marsh, was locked up for six and a half years at Canterbury Crown Court on 21 July. He admitted trying to cause grievous bodily harm, committing arson, and assaulting two emergency workers. After his jail term, he must serve another two years on licence.
Knife Attack in Ashford Car Park
The trouble began on 15 June 2020 during a bitter row with an ex-partner in a car park on Hillbrow Lane, Ashford. Bumstead suddenly shouted at a man sitting inside a van nearby. Then, pulling out a long bread knife, he lunged to stab the man through an open window.
Luckily, the victim dodged the blade. Bumstead then kicked the van and fled as the victim alerted police. It was a chilling knife attack that could have ended in disaster.
Petrol Bomb Arson in Charing
Just six months later, on 8 December 2020, Bumstead was spotted with two accomplices filling up a jerry can at a petrol station near Charing. Less than an hour later, they hurled flaming fuel bottles at a property linked to Bumstead’s ex-partner, setting it ablaze.
Two Kent Police officers, nearby on separate calls, quickly responded to the blaze and tracked Bumstead to the village train station. During his arrest, he violently knocked one officer to the ground and threatened to shove another onto the train tracks.
Police React: ‘Danger to Public’
PC Sophia Lateu, the lead detective, said: “Bumstead is an unpredictable and dangerous man. I’m relieved he is now off Kent’s streets.”
“No one should endure violence or threats from a partner or ex-partner. If you are suffering abuse, please contact Kent Police or reach out to someone you trust. Help is available,” she added.
