Violent knife attacker jailed for 10 years

A knife attacker has been jailed for more than 10 years after two violent incidents in Brighton in October last year.

Joel Elliott, 34, of Springfield Road, Brighton, robbed a man called Mason King at knifepoint in Trafalgar Street on Monday 9 October.

He threatened and slashed Mr King, injuring him while forcefully taking his backpack which contained a wallet and other personal possessions.

Less than two weeks later, on Sunday 22 October, a woman reported being attacked by Elliott. He tried to strangle her and threatened her by holding a knife to her throat.

He was arrested the same day and charged the following day.

Judge Stephen Mooney said: “You have an appalling record. It is purely luck which has so far prevented you from causing a death.

“The sentence that I am imposing is intended to protect the public and to ensure that you are not released until your attitude to the carrying of knives has changed.”

Elliott had previously pleaded guilty to charges of robbery, having a knife in a public place, making threats with a knife, suffocation and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.

The court ordered that a rape charge, which Elliott denied, should lie on the file.

At Lewes Crown Court on Friday (10 May), Judge Mooney jailed Elliott for a total of 10 years and six months.

Detective Sergeant Victoria Thornton-Green said: “A man with complete disregard for the law, who is a danger to the community and who maliciously assaulted people simply because he felt he could, has been removed from the streets, which as a direct result are now a safer place.

“On Monday 9 October 2023, the public came to the aid of the victim, who suffered multiple injuries as a result of Elliott’s violent assault.

“On behalf of the victim, and Sussex Police as a whole, I would like to thank those who assisted and also those who have helped our wider inquiries that have led us to this result.

“This outcome was made possible through the collaborative efforts of multiple departments within Sussex Police, all of whom worked tirelessly to ensure a thorough investigation and to secure justice for the victims, allowing them to begin their recovery and move forward with their lives.”