A teenager has been remanded in custody after he pleaded guilty to stabbing a woman in Brighton.

On Saturday, May 25, the victim, a 37-year-old woman from Brighton, was walking in Church Place when a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, engaged in a verbal altercation with her. Witnesses reported hearing the boy shout, "Do you actually want me to chef you?" before he approached the woman and stabbed her. He then fled the scene.

The woman was taken to hospital with a serious head injury and remains in stable condition.

Following police enquiries, the suspect was identified and arrested on Monday, May 27. He was charged later that evening with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a weapon in a public place.

The boy reportedly told a witness that he became angered by the victim when she looked at him as he walked on the opposite side of the street.

The 17-year-old appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, May 28, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. He has been remanded in juvenile detention and will await his sentencing on June 12.

Detective Sergeant Victoria Thornton Green said:

"The fact that this child felt compelled to inflict such injuries simply because someone looked at them on the street is extremely disturbing.

"We hope that the swift investigation, arrest, and subsequent results will help the victim begin her recovery from this horrendous incident.

"This stabbing highlights the devastating impact of knife crime on our communities and underscores the urgent need for continued efforts to educate individuals about the dangers of carrying a knife and its devastating consequences.

"We would like to take the opportunity to thank the public for their support and understanding during police enquiries in the area".

If you have a concern about someone carrying a knife, contact 101 to make a report. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can report anonymously to Crimestoppers.

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