The convicted murderer of 18-year-old student Henry Nowak has been granted permission to appeal his 21-year prison sentence. Vickrum Digwa, aged 23, was originally sentenced after being found guilty of stabbing Nowak to death in Southampton in December. The appeal hearing is scheduled for November 5 at the Court of Appeal, where judges will determine whether to uphold, increase, or reduce Digwa’s sentence.

Digwa was handed a minimum term of 21 years in May following the fatal attack. The incident occurred as Nowak was walking home alone after an evening out. According to the case details, Nowak, who had consumed alcohol below the legal driving limit and was unarmed, encountered Digwa carrying two knives: one sheathed knife and a larger dagger. Nowak reportedly took out his phone and began filming Digwa, asking if he was a “bad man.” Digwa then seized the phone and stabbed Nowak.

The 18-year-old sustained four knife wounds, including a fatal injury to his chest. Upon police arrival, Digwa falsely claimed he had been racially abused by Nowak. Meanwhile, emergency responders handcuffed the dying teenager at the scene.

The Attorney General had challenged the original sentence, arguing it was unduly lenient, prompting the appeal. In response, Digwa has filed a cross-appeal contending that his sentence is too harsh. The Court of Appeal will consider both positions before making a ruling on the appropriate length of imprisonment.