Man sentenced to 21 years for attempted murder after daylight stabbing in Luton
Barze Faesal, 29, stalked his ex partner across the country, before ambushing her with a knife in May
A man has been sentenced to 21 years in prison after attacking his ex-partner in broad daylight, following a prolonged campaign of intimidation and harassment.
On 21 May this year, Barze Faesal was arrested for stabbing a woman on Dunstable Road in Luton. The assault occurred after Faesal, who had stalked the victim across the country, waited with a knife to ambush her.
During the investigation, the victim described to police how Faesal had been coercive and controlling during their relationship, leaving her "consumed with fear." Despite multiple attempts to escape the relationship, Faesal continued to pursue her relentlessly.
In August, Faesal, aged 29 and of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder, threats to kill, and stalking. He had previously admitted to possessing a bladed article.
At a hearing today at Luton Crown Court, he was sentenced to 21 years in prison, with an additional five years to be served on licence. Her Honour Judge Jane Hunter, who passed the sentence, commented on the "terrifying and vengeful campaign" Faesal waged against his former partner. She noted that the victim "sought refuge around the country" while Faesal "repeatedly tracked down her whereabouts and caused her to fear for her own safety," labelling him as "high risk and of serious harm."
Detective Superintendent Emma Pitts, Head of the Bedfordshire Police Public Protection Unit, said: "This was an horrific attack on a woman who was targeted in broad daylight by a man who refused to believe their relationship was over. During their relationship, the victim lived in fear, and even when she tried to leave, that fear followed her as Faesal continued to stalk and abuse her, before carrying out his vicious attack."
She added, "Domestic abuse and violence in any form is unacceptable, and we are committed to bringing perpetrators to justice. No woman ever deserves to feel unsafe, and they should be able to leave a relationship without fear. We understand how difficult it is for victims of domestic abuse to come forward, but we are here to help. We have a number of specialist trained officers who can support you through any criminal proceedings with respect and care, and we work with several partner organisations who can offer guidance and stepping stones to help rebuild your future."
Further information on how Bedfordshire Police are addressing male violence against women and girls is available on their website: Bedfordshire Police – Male Violence Against Women and Girls.