Trial date set for man accused of soldier stabbing

A date has been set for the trial of Anthony Esan, who is accused of attempting to murder a soldier near his barracks in Kent

A trial date has been set for a man who allegedly tried to kill an Army officer outside his barracks in Kent.

Anthony Esan, 25, is accused of the attempted murder of Lt Col Mark Teeton, who was stabbed in Sally Port Gardens near Brompton Barracks in Chatham on July 23, 2024.

At Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday, 3 September, a trial date of 2 February 2026 was set.

Mr Esan also faces a charge of possession of a bladed weapon in relation to the attack on 47-year-old Lt Col Teeton.

Since the attack, the case has been repeatedly delayed as investigations over Mr Esan's mental ill health and fitness to plead have been made.

Further psychological reports are expected by the court before the 2 February trial.

A plea hearing for Mr Esan, who is expected to attend by video link from Broadmoor Hospital, was set for 27 November.