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A recent incident at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, has drawn significant attention after a 14-year-old girl attempted to kill two teachers and a fellow student during a break period, aiming to attract the largest possible audience.
On April 24 of last year, equipped with her father’s multi-tool, the girl launched an attack on teachers Fiona Elias and Liz Hopkin, as well as another student.
In the aftermath, she reportedly stated to police, “That’s one way to be a celebrity,” suggesting a disturbing motive for her actions.
On Monday, Judge Paul Thomas KC sentenced her to 15 years in detention at Swansea Crown Court for attempted murder, mandating that she spend half of this time on remand.
During the trial, the girl exhibited little emotion, often seen sketching or taking notes. The judge expressed concerns over her lack of remorse and noted previous threats made while in detention.
“Your actions garnered attention and, quite frankly, you seemed to revel in the publicity,” he remarked. “I do not believe that you are genuinely sorry.”
He highlighted that she remains a risk to others, having made threats while incarcerated.
Witnesses recounted that the attack unfolded amidst a number of students during the break, with the assailant shouting, “I’m going to f—— kill you.”
As Mrs. Elias was assaulted, Ms. Hopkin intervened, urging her colleague to escape. The student struggled free and was stabbed multiple times.
While other staff tried to manage the situation, the girl fled and attempted to stab another pupil before being subdued.
After her detention, she made comments to police that implied a desire for fame, saying, “I’m pretty sure this is going to be on the news, so more eyes will be looking at me.”
Judge Thomas noted the widespread trauma caused by her actions, emphasizing how many lives had been deeply affected.
“You wanted as many witnesses as possible to see what you had planned,” he stated, asserting the premeditated nature of her attack.
Mrs. Elias shared her emotional impact during the trial, revealing that the scars from the attack serve as a constant reminder of her close brush with death.
Having dedicated about 20 years to teaching, Mrs. Elias reflected on how the incident left her with overwhelming guilt, particularly regarding her students and their families.
She articulated her resolve that while her identity may remain anonymous, her story and the trauma she endured will never disappear.
Mrs. Hopkin expressed gratitude at being present to prevent a potentially fatal outcome for her colleague, emphasizing that her intervention was crucial.
The assailant had pled guilty to multiple charges, including wounding with intent and possessing a bladed article on school grounds, but maintained her innocence regarding attempted murder.
After a week-long trial in February, she was subsequently found guilty.
Michael Cray of the Crown Prosecution Service addressed the gravity of the situation, highlighting the fear experienced by those involved and the severe implications of such knife-related incidents.
“The bravery of staff and students during this frightening event deserves commendation,” he remarked, underscoring the need for vigilant responses to prevent future acts of violence in schools.
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