Three teenagers have been sentenced following a stabbing that occurred in Royal Wootton Bassett earlier this year, leaving a 16-year-old boy injured.
The incident took place on the evening of 3rd June when two teenage boys encountered three male teenagers in the New Road area. A confrontation escalated into violence, resulting in one of the boys being stabbed in the back. The victim required seven stitches for his wound.
Following the altercation, a 17-year-old from Swindon and two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, from Royal Wootton Bassett were arrested. They pleaded guilty to charges including Section 18 grievous bodily harm (GBH), attempted GBH, and possession of a bladed article in a public place. For legal reasons, the names of the defendants have not been disclosed.
The 17-year-old from Swindon received a 20-month prison sentence along with a four-year restraining order. Meanwhile, the other two teenagers from Royal Wootton Bassett were handed referral orders and given a one-year restraining order each.
Detective Constable Chris Hemns commented on the case, stating, “There can be no place for incidents like this in Wiltshire. The impact of knife crime on our communities can’t be underestimated, and it remains a top priority for the Force to target those carrying knives.” Hemns added, “Even one incident involving a knife is too many. I’d urge anyone who carries a knife, whether for protection or other reasons, to seriously reconsider, as the consequences can be lifelong.”
Hemns further emphasised the ongoing efforts by Wiltshire Police and their partners to tackle knife crime, saying, “It’s not a problem that can be solved by the police alone. A long-term, collaborative approach between the police, local partners, and parents is essential to educate young people on the risks of carrying knives.”
