Custody image released of "dangerous" man caught on camera knifing person in Portsmouth street

Hampshire Police have said they are “glad” to see menace Gary Baldacchino, 40, behind bars following the horrific incident at 12.32pm on Wednesday 5 February.

A 53-year-old man was knifed in the stomach on Kingston Road, near to Kingston Crescent, North End. The sickening attack was captured on camera by an eye-witness.

Emergency services attended and the man was taken to hospital for treatment for a life-threatening knife injury to his stomach before recovering.

Following an investigation by the Eastern Criminal Investigations Department, Baldacchino, of London Road, Portsmouth was arrested and charged with wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

A jury found Baldacchino guilty of the offences following a trial in August and he appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court for sentencing on Monday. He was jailed for four years and handed an extended licence period of one year.

Now police have given their verdict on the disturbing incident, with Portsmouth Chief Inspector Sam Warne saying: “Baldacchino is a dangerous individual and I am glad to see him behind bars for this violent attack, which he committed in a busy public area in broad daylight.

“This was understandably a very concerning incident for the community and I am glad that we have taken someone who poses a risk to the public off of the streets.

“I hope this sentence sends a clear message to those who choose to carry a knife or commit acts of serious violence in our city that we will not tolerate this behaviour. You will be pursued and you will be brought before the courts.

“We work closely with partners to manage individuals at risk of reoffending, identifying those who have been involved with knife-related offences and providing opportunities for engagement and diversion, pursuing prosecution and enforcement when appropriate.”