The detective who helped bring a ‘murderous’ axeman to justice branded his attack as terrifying and horrific.
Taras Voinovich was given a life sentence at Oxford Crown Court last week for raining down blows on his immigration lawyer with a sheathed axe outside the man’s home in July last year.
The victim’s wife and neighbour were injured when they went to his aid and tried to fight off the attacker.
READ MORE: Life in prison for axeman described as 'murderous' by judge
The pair’s bravery was praised by judge Recorder John Hardy KC last Monday, when he said Voinovich must serve at least 12 years inside prison.
He also commended the courage of other neighbours who followed the axeman around the corner, to where he was arrested by the police.
Welcoming the sentence, DC Fritha Harvey of St Aldates police station, said: “This was a terrifying and horrific incident for all involved that could have been even worse if not for the bravery of the victim’s wife and the members of the public.
“Response officers attended the location soon after the attack, locating and arresting the suspect around the corner.”
Voinovich, of Islip Road, Oxford, was found guilty at the start of the year of wounding with intent, causing actual bodily harm and criminal damage.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article