A woman who carried out a brutal and unprovoked knife attack in the streets of Maidstone has been jailed for four years.

Chelsea Dunn, 31, launched a sustained assault on another woman with a kitchen knife after arranging to meet her under the pretence of exchanging cigarettes. The attack occurred near Sutton Road in the early hours of 7 November 2024.

As the two women met, Dunn suddenly produced the concealed blade and stabbed the victim multiple times, inflicting serious injuries before fleeing the scene on foot. The injured woman managed to raise the alarm and was taken to hospital for emergency treatment to several wounds across her body.

Kent Police launched an immediate investigation and arrested Dunn later that day at her home in Darwin Avenue. During questioning, Dunn admitted the attack was linked to her misuse of cocaine, though she denied being under the influence of drugs at the time.

She was subsequently charged with wounding with intent and possession of a knife in a public place. Dunn pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced on 23 May 2025 to four years in prison, with an additional two-year extended licence period.

In a statement following sentencing, Detective Constable James Kersey of Kent Police said:

“Dunn knew the victim and met her on the pretence of sharing cigarettes, but was secretly carrying a knife which she suddenly produced to carry out a sustained and terrifying attack. The victim was left in genuine fear for her life. As well as the lifelong physical scars, this unprovoked assault has had a huge psychological impact on her wellbeing and ability to feel safe.”

DC Kersey added:

“There is never an excuse for carrying a knife and the public are all too aware, as are we, that the impact of knife crime can often be devastating. I do hope the victim can take comfort and reassurance now that Dunn has been jailed.”

In addition to her custodial sentence, Dunn has also been made subject to a ten-year restraining order to protect the victim.