Key facts
- A 16-year-old schoolboy was acquitted of attempted murder after stabbing his history teacher.
- The jury found him guilty of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
- The incident occurred in February at Milford Haven Comprehensive School.
- The student claimed he "accidentally assaulted" the teacher during a struggle for the knife.
- He had pleaded guilty to possessing a kitchen knife on school grounds.
- Sentencing is scheduled for September 3 at Swansea Crown Court.
A 16-year-old schoolboy has been acquitted of attempted murder after stabbing his history teacher, Vicki Williams, in the head at Milford Haven Comprehensive School. The jury at Swansea Crown Court found him guilty of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, reaching a majority verdict of 11 to one after deliberations.
The court heard that the pupil, who was 15 at the time of the incident in February, approached Mrs. Williams' desk to ask her to check his schoolwork. He then closed the classroom door, stating it was cold, before pulling a large kitchen knife from his bag and striking her. Mrs. Williams recounted that "alarm bells" rang when he shut the door. A "violent struggle" ensued as she tried to take the knife from him. The student claimed he "accidentally assaulted her" during the struggle, stating Mrs. Williams had tried to grab the knife from him.
Following the attack, Mrs. Williams was treated in hospital for a wound to her scalp, scratches on her back, and minor cuts to her hands. The prosecution argued the attack was planned, with the student bringing the knife to school to attack the teacher, describing her as an "easy target." The defense suggested the knife was brought to school to "show off" and that there was no prior animosity between the student and teacher. The teenager had previously pleaded guilty to possessing a kitchen knife on school grounds.
He will be sentenced on September 3 at Swansea Crown Court.