A 14-year-old boy who stabbed a schoolgirl 10 times with a kitchen knife in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, has been given a community-based sentence, sparking criticism from the victim’s family and some political figures. The boy, who also injured a shopkeeper intervening in the attack, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and possessing a bladed article in a public place.

The attack occurred in March after the victim rejected the teenager’s advances. According to court transcripts, the boy waited near a local shop and, upon being refused, pursued the girl with the knife, stabbing her repeatedly in the neck, hands, and face. Police described the assault as “frenzied” and potentially fatal. Following the incident, the boy was held for three months at Vinny Green, a secure unit for youths aged 10 to 17 in south Gloucestershire.

At Gloucester Crown Court, Judge Ian Lawrie KC emphasized rehabilitation over incarceration, describing the boy as a “bright lad” and stating that custody should be a last resort. The judge imposed a 12-month referral order, likely to include intervention programs to address the offending behavior, along with a three-year restraining order preventing contact with the victim and her mother. The boy was also subject to a curfew and electronic tagging, although it was reported that on the day of his bail release, the tagging device could not be fitted immediately due to a late return home.

The judge acknowledged the premeditated and terrifying nature of the attack and noted concerns about the boy’s behavioral difficulties, including a possible autism diagnosis. However, Judge Lawrie concluded that the teenager was not considered a danger to the public and maintained that he was capable of rehabilitation.

The sentence has drawn strong criticism, particularly from the victim’s mother, who described it as “disgraceful.” The case also attracted attention amid broader concerns about the handling of knife crime in the justice system. Sir Mark Rowley, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, recently highlighted issues with courts releasing suspects charged with multiple knife and firearms offenses due to prison overcrowding. Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy called the decision unacceptable, arguing that the young offender should have received a custodial sentence.

The boy’s identity has not been disclosed due to his age. Court officials noted that if he complies with the terms of the referral and restraining orders, he will avoid further court proceedings.