Cambridge Attacker Sentenced to 14 Years for Brutal Knife Assault
A man who carried out what police described as a "brutal and completely unprovoked" knife attack on a woman he considered a friend has been sentenced to 14 years in prison. The violent incident, which occurred in Cambridge last year, saw the attacker flee the scene and make a desperate run towards the local airport before being apprehended.
Cocaine-Fuelled Morning Turns Violent
Samuel Jackson, 35, from Harvest Road in Watton, Thetford, had smoked crack cocaine before visiting the 42-year-old victim's home in the early hours of May 26. The pair, who were known to each other, initially spent time drinking beer together before walking to a nearby shop to purchase coffee and food.
Upon returning to the flat on Kathleen Elliott Way at approximately 8am, the situation took a terrifying turn. Jackson entered the kitchen and emerged armed with a knife, proceeding to stab the woman multiple times in the chest. One of the wounds came perilously close to her heart, with medical professionals later informing her she was fortunate to survive the attack.
Victim's Harrowing Escape and Airport Chase
Despite suffering severe injuries, the courageous victim managed to make her way outside the property to call for help. Emergency services responded promptly, rushing her to hospital where she received life-saving treatment. In her subsequent statements to authorities, she likened Jackson's behaviour during the attack to that of a "crazed animal."
Meanwhile, Jackson fled the scene through a bathroom window, embarking on a chaotic escape attempt that involved hopping across neighbouring gardens before running in the direction of Cambridge Airport. His flight was ultimately halted by an airport worker who detained him on the runway until officers from Cambridgeshire Constabulary arrived to make the arrest.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Following a five-day trial at Cambridge Crown Court, Jackson was found not guilty of attempted murder. However, he pleaded guilty to the charge of grievous bodily harm with intent, acknowledging the severity of his actions. On January 29, he received a 14-year prison sentence for the vicious assault.
Detective Constable George McCready, speaking after the sentencing, emphasised the shocking nature of the attack: "This was a brutal and completely unprovoked attack on a woman who believed Jackson was her friend. Jackson's behaviour that morning was violent and unpredictable, and this sentence reflects the severity of the harm he caused."
The detective further noted that while the victim has made a physical recovery from her injuries, the psychological impact of the violent assault continues to affect her daily life. The case highlights the devastating consequences of drug-fuelled violence within communities and the importance of robust police response to such incidents.
