Jobcentre Knifeman Jailed For Stabbing

This Jobcentre knifeman, who stabbed a young female employee as security staff tried to restrain him, has been jailed for eight years.

Erion Hoxha, 35, of Glenister Street, Canning Town, pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm, with intent, at his local branch in Freemasons Road on April 4, last year.

He also admitted criminal damage; possession of a knife in a public place and assault.

A few days earlier he was responsible for another violent incident at the same Jobcentre.

Just before 12.10pm on April 4, Hoxha entered the premises holding a knife with a 20cm blade.

He started shouting threats, and after resisting attempts by security to restrain him, he lunged at the woman, who was standing close by and wounded her.

The victim - aged in her twenties - was taken to safety as officers attended and tried to calm the situation.

Hoxha also tried to stab a second employee who suffered minor injuries while trying to evade him.

A Taser was used after Hoxha did not comply with instructions to disarm himself and surrender, and he was detained by officers.

The victim was taken to an east London hospital for treatment to her injuries which fortunately, were not serious.

Hoxha was charged the following day.

Detective Constable Chloe Angris, of the North East Command Unit, said: "This was a terrifying incident for everyone present at the Job Centre that day, not least the victim, who Hoxha indiscriminately stabbed.

“It is fortunate that the victim did not suffer serious injury, and the sentence handed down by the court reflects the severity of his crimes."