Judge Heather Norton sentenced former British soldier Krisma Anthony to 27 years in prison, but co-accused Jahlil Charles, 23, was acquitted of attempted murder and possessing a knife.
They were under trial in the Reading Crown Court for the knife attack that left Barbadian Tharel Thompson, 29, fighting for his life.
Norton took his young age – 23 years – previous good character with no prior convictions or cautions, and his army service into consideration. He had previously pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and carrying a knife.
Yvonne, Tharel’s mother, gave a moving statement that outlined her son’s injuries and the family’s ordeal.
Recalling hearing that her son had been seriously wounded, she said: “I now know what the saying ‘your life can change in a split second’ means,” adding, “I will never forget seeing how swollen his head was”.
Yvonne said Tharel was told he will never work again and was worried about their finances. She said he now needed round-the-clock care – including dressing and bathing much like when he was baby.
The attack occurred in a nightclub while Tharel was out with relatives. He arrived in the United Kingdom on holiday on February 4 and was scheduled to return on February 28. (Nation News)
