A MAN has been given a hospital order after appearing unannounced at an old acquaintance’s house and stabbing him.
Denny Austin, 29, of Barlby Road, Ladbroke Grove, was sentenced under the mental health act at Harrow Crown Court on Friday, March 8, for grievous bodily harm.
The court heard that on December 14, 2011, shortly before 10pm, in Sandringham Road, Willesden, the 29-year-old victim was at home with his two children, who were asleep.
He heard someone knocking at his front door and upon opening the front door saw an old acquaintance, Denny Austin.
When the victim opened the front door, Austin punched him in the face, without warning.
The victim managed to shut the door again, but Austin then kicked it in, knocking it from the door frame.
Austin produced a knife, attacking the victim and during a struggle stabbed him five times.
The noise of the struggle woke the victim’s children and fearing for his and their safety, the victim grabbed the knife from Austin, causing himself extensive hand injuries.
Austin ran off and the victim alerted his neighbours. He was later arrested and charged, and remanded in custody. He was found guilty at trial in August last year.
Police Constable Tim Mcgowan from Brent Violent Crime Unit said: “This was a violent offence and the community will be protected by this hospital order. Mr Austin is a dangerous individual who will now receive appropriate treatment.”
