Jury Confirms Knife Attack on Officer by Thomas Gracey
A jury at Winchester Crown Court has found Thomas Gracey, 45, of Basingstoke, did attack a police officer with a knife on April 12, 2020. The dramatic verdict came after a three-day hearing on Friday 29 October.
Gracey was deemed unfit to stand trial due to mental health issues. Instead, the jury was tasked with determining what happened during the incident, not his guilt.
Routine Mental Health Call Turns Violent
That day started like any other for the police constable and his partner. They were sent to a flat on Churchill Way to assist Mental Health Practitioners with a warrant under the Mental Health Act. Officers often help professionals gain access when there are concerns about a person’s safety.
The officers tried to calm Gracey by slipping him a note under the door and calling his phone, assuring him he was not in trouble and urging him to come out peacefully. When he didn’t respond, backup was requested to bring equipment to force entry.
Before reinforcements arrived, the officer heard the door open. Suddenly, Gracey launched a vicious knife attack.
Neighbours and Mental Health Workers Rush to Help
Shouts for help echoed through the building. Neighbours and mental health workers rushed toward the danger. One neighbour distracted Gracey to stop the stabbing. The mental health team helped restrain Gracey and tend to the officer’s injuries.
More officers arrived shortly after and managed to subdue and arrest Gracey. While in custody, his mental health was evaluated, and he was detained in a secure facility under the Mental Health Act.
The officer was rushed to hospital with multiple stab wounds to his head, face, arms, hands, and fingers. What should have been a routine day on duty turned into a nightmare.
Chief Constable Praises Bravery and Calls for Support
“Officers risk their lives every day to keep people safe,” said Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney. “They often assist mental health professionals to protect vulnerable people with complex needs. I want to commend the bravery of the injured officer who has since returned to duty and thank all those who ran toward danger that day.”
Chief Constable Pinkney acknowledged the officer’s physical wounds have healed but warned the trauma of that terrifying attack will linger.
Indefinite Hospital Order Issued
Following the jury’s decision, the judge handed down an indefinite hospital order for Gracey under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, ensuring he remains in secure care.
