Anthony Esan has been sentenced to life with a minimum of seven years for the attempted murder of an army officer in a knife attack, which the officer compared to the murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby.
A man named Anthony Esan has received a life sentence with a minimum term of seven years and 162 days for the attempted murder of Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton, a uniformed army officer. This serious assault occurred in July 2024 in Chatham, Kent, where Esan stabbed Teeton multiple times with two knives. Esan pleaded guilty to the charges of attempted murder and possessing bladed weapons earlier in January 2026. During the sentencing hearing, experts noted that Esan was suffering from schizophrenia at the time of the attack, which played a significant role in his mental state.
Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton described the violent encounter as life-threatening, expressing his gratitude to be alive after the stabbing that left him with severe injuries, including a large wound to his neck. The comparison made by Teeton to the murder of Fusilier Lee Rigby highlights the gravity of the attack and the ongoing concerns about attacks on military personnel in public spaces. Such violent incidents raise questions about the safety of service members and the mental health issues that can lead to acts of violence.
The judge emphasized that Esan would be treated in a hospital facility as long as necessary, indicating the court's recognition of his mental health conditions. This case sheds light on the need for addressing mental health support and the implications of violent crimes in the context of national security, particularly as it pertains to military personnel. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement and mental health services in dealing with such complex cases.
