Doncaster man stabbed pensioner in the neck in his own home in brutal attack leaving him in a pool of blood

Robert Christian, aged 34, of no fixed abode, followed his victim from shops in Balby on 23 April 2023 before appearing outside his home and demanding he hand over his money.

When he refused, Christian barged his way in and attacked him, leaving his victim, who is in his 70s, "frozen with fear".

He was left helpless against an "out of control" Christian who pushed him over and kicked him several times in the ribs.

Christian ordered him to stay on the floor as he pilfered through the man's belongings, stealing a purple laptop, a black mobile phone and a wallet before leaving and locking him in his own home.

His victim, who uses a walking frame due to mobility issues, noticed he was bleeding heavily and realised he had been stabbed in the lung and neck, with the blade cutting his jugular vein.

He managed to call 999 and survived, with Christian soon arrested by our officers after being identified as a prolific beggar in the surrounding area.

Christian was charged with attempted murder and eventually pleaded guilty to robbery and assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH) at Sheffield Crown Court on 14 August.

He was given a 16-year extended sentence, comprising a custodial term of 11 years and a five-year extension period, at the same court last Tuesday (30 November).

Detective Constable Alexandra Owen, investigating, said: "This was a horrendous attack on a vulnerable elderly man who was left absolutely terrified after being targeted in his own home.

"Heartbreakingly, the victim had given Christian over £50 of his cash on previous occasions after spotting him asking for money outside local shops. It's disgusting to see that this is how he repaid his kindness.

"Christian was so out of control his victim didn't know if he would survive and I can't imagine the physical and psychological trauma he endured.

"Thankfully, we were able to quickly apprehend Christian and I am glad we were able to put him before the courts and secure a significant custodial sentence.

"We hope the victim and local community is reassured by the fast and positive action taken to get Christian off our streets and I hope his sentence sends out a clear message that we will not tolerate robbery and violence in South Yorkshire."