A teenager from Crawley has been sentenced to more than three years in a young offenders institution after stabbing a 17-year-old boy following a confrontation with strangers.
Attack in Langley Green
The violent incident occurred on Thursday, July 17, at approximately 9.50pm on Martyrs Avenue in the Langley Green area of Crawley. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports that a teenager had been stabbed.
The victim, also aged 17, became involved in an altercation with two boys he did not know. After an argument broke out, he was stabbed, sustaining serious injuries.
Investigation and Arrest
Paramedics treated the injured boy at the scene before he was transported to hospital for further care. Fortunately, he has since made a recovery from his wounds.
The suspect, who was also 17 and from Crawley, fled the scene immediately after the attack. He was located by police and arrested the following day.
He was subsequently charged with wounding with intent, possession of a bladed article, and threatening a person with a bladed article. The defendant was remanded into secure accommodation while awaiting trial.
Court Sentencing and Police Statement
At court, the youth – who cannot be named for legal reasons due to his age – pleaded guilty to all charges. On Friday, November 7, he was sentenced to three years and eight months in prison.
Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Lane of Sussex Police commented on the case, stating: “This incident is another unwelcome reminder of the dangers of knife crime, which could have ended in tragic circumstances.”
She added, “As a force we remain focused on reducing knife crime on our streets, working with our partners and young people on early intervention, education and enforcement where needed.”
DCI Lane also commended the investigative team for their work in bringing the offender to justice.
