Man jailed for attempting to kill officer at Preston station
A 54-year-old man has been jailed for 27 years
British Transport Police (BTP) have confirmed a 54-year-old man has been jailed for 27 years for the attempted murder of a BTP Special Constable.
Russell Smith, of Shakespeare Road, Preston, was found guilty of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article by a jury at Preston Crown Court on Thursday 27 February.
He was sentenced to a minimum of 18 years in prison before he can be considered for parole, with an extended five years on licence.
The court heard how, at around 9.30pm on 7 September 2024, the victim, a BTP Special Constable, was working a policing operation at Preston station to ensure passenger safety during the Radio 2 Summer festival.
Smith approached the officer from behind while he was advising two members of the public on their travel plans, repeatedly moving his hand to his trouser pocket where he had a kitchen knife concealed.
As the officer walked into the station, Smith pulled the knife from his pocket, raised it above his head and ran towards the officer, stabbing him in the back of the neck.
A colleague who heard the officer’s screams ran to his aid and Smith backed away.
On realising his colleague had been stabbed he used his captor spray to restrain Smith who dropped the knife while another officer handcuffed Smith.
Assistant Chief Constable Charlie Doyle said: “Justice has been served today as Russell Smith has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for this violent and targeted attack on a British Transport Police Special Constable.
“We hope the officer, who has already returned to his duties protecting the public and keeping the railway safe, can now gain some closure from what was an horrific experience.
““No police officer, particularly those who take on an unpaid role to make a difference and protect their community, should be subject to violence like this and we will continue to support him through his ongoing recovery.
“I would like to extend my thanks to the investigation team for their dedication and hard work in securing this outcome.”
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