Man Jailed for 15 Years After Stabbing Victim Over 20 Times
Brutal Knife Attack Shocks Sittingbourne
A violent knife assault in Sittingbourne has landed John Brazil behind bars for 15 years. The 23-year-old slashed his victim more than 20 times in a savage attack at the victim’s Rushenden home in November 2018.
Brazil, who has no fixed address, denied attempted murder but was found guilty by a Maidstone Crown Court jury after a fierce trial. The brutal attack unfolded after the two men bumped into each other at a local nightclub.
Chance Meeting Turns Deadly
Brazil and his victim had known each other for around a decade but hadn’t been in contact for years. They met by chance at a nightclub in Sittingbourne on the night of 10 November and spent hours socialising.
The violence erupted soon after Brazil went back to the victim’s house. Eyewitnesses told the court a heated dispute broke out in the living room. Brazil then repeatedly stabbed the victim, including a serious wound to the chest.
Footage from private CCTV cameras showed the victim staggering away from the house to get help, with Brazil close behind before vanishing.
Manhunt Ends With Arrest in Derbyshire
The victim was airlifted to a London hospital, treated urgently, and has thankfully made a full recovery.
Despite multiple witnesses naming Brazil, the attacker vanished into hiding. After being put on Kent Police’s Most Wanted list, he was finally arrested in a Derbyshire bedsit on 5 December, over three weeks after the attack.
Since his arrest, Brazil has been held in custody awaiting sentencing.
Police Praise Robust Justice
“Brazil subjected his victim to a savage attack which left him with serious injuries that required urgent medical attention,” said Detective Constable Andrew Jobes.
“His sudden, repeated use of a weapon on someone he was socialising with shows he’s a highly dangerous offender. We won’t tolerate attacks involving weapons and will always seek the strongest punishment.”
“We’re pleased Brazil received a tough custodial sentence, preventing him from hurting anyone else.”
