Bury St Edmunds man jailed for 'random' stabbing of woman walking dog

The victim said Stephen Byrne was not known to her

A 54-year-old man has been jailed for 45 months following the "random" stabbing of a woman walking her dog.

The victim, aged in her 50s, was on St Olaves Road, in Bury St Edmunds, when she was approached from behind and stabbed in the lower back on 14 June.

Stephen Byrne fled and returned home to Hodson Close in the town, where he called 999. He was arrested soon after and admitted the offence.

He appeared at Ipswich Crown Court and was sentenced to 45 months in jail.

The victim also called the police and was taken to West Suffolk Hospital, where her injuries were confirmed as minor.

The incident happened at about 22:25 BST and Byrne was arrested about 15 minutes later.

He admitted he had been drinking alcohol throughout the day.

He pleaded guilty to possessing a knife in a public place and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Det Insp Stuart Dolan-Allen, of Suffolk police, said: "This was an unprovoked and random attack which so easily could have led to a fatal conclusion.

"The victim fortunately did not suffer serious injury. However, this would have been a terrifying ordeal and the psychological impact should not be underestimated.

"Knife crime can have devastating consequences and I hope the sentencing shows that violence will not be tolerated in our communities and we will take robust action on those responsible."