Ex who hid in cupboard before stabbing woman 22 times in front of her children jailed for 22 years
A man who hid in his ex-partner’s kitchen cupboard armed with knives has been jailed for attempted murder after stabbing her more than 20 times in front of her own children.
Jake Joe Bamber had broken into the woman’s home and armed himself with a number of knives before hiding in the kitchen and waiting for her to return.
He then attacked her so viciously that the knives he had taken with him broke - leading to him returning to the kitchen so he could arm himself with more blades.
Police were called to the scene on Lindley Road in York shortly before 6pm on January 10, and arrived nine minutes later to find the victim conscious but seriously injured.
She was taken to hospital by ambulance in a life-threatening condition while police began to hunt for the 35-year-old Bamber, who had fled the scene.
Shortly after 9.30pm, North Yorkshire Police were contacted to say a man had been found on Whitley Close covered in blood and unresponsive.
Paramedics identified stab wounds, and he was taken to hospital in a critical condition. While not confirmed, it is suspected that these injuries were self-inflicted.
The man was quickly identified as Bamber, who was arrested and charged.
He admitted attempted murder, possession of a knife in a public place, controlling and coercive behaviour, and stalking at Leeds Crown Court on February 18 and was jailed for 22 years and four months on Friday (Apr 10).
Detective Chief Inspector Carol Kirk, the senior investigating officer, said: "This was a truly horrific and senseless act of violence on a young woman in her own home.
"The extreme level of brutality Bamber inflicted on the victim was beyond belief, and it was all because she had the courage to end the cycle of domestic abuse that he had subjected her to over an extended period of time.
"Terrifyingly, Bamber was hiding in wait for the victim to return home before leaping out at her with a knife. This was the place where she should have felt safe and secure, but his terrible actions shattered that feeling forever.
"Bamber then fled the scene leaving his victim fighting for her life."
DCI Kirk added: "I commend the strength and bravery of the victim who, in my eyes, is a true survivor.
"Even though she was desperately injured, her first thought was to protect her young children and she told them what to do to call for help.
"I am in awe of the courage of her children who despite being only young and terrified, stayed calm and listened to their mum so they could raise the alarm by calling for help both on the phone and out of the window.
"I also pay tribute to her neighbour who did not hesitate when the children yelled for help. The neighbour climbed through the window to get the children to safety, and started lifesaving first aid whilst not knowing if Bamber was still in the house.
"In my mind, these women and children are true heroes."
DCI Kirk praised the police officers and staff who responded so swiftly, and the rapid response by Yorkshire Ambulance Service. She is also grateful to the investigation team and the Crown Prosecution Service, who worked incredibly hard together to secure justice.
She added: "This significant outcome at court is the result of a collective effort, with the victim and her family very much in the centre. No amount of time can ever undo the harm caused by Bamber, but the family can now start to rebuild a much brighter future.
"North Yorkshire Police will continue in our relentless pursuit of perpetrators of domestic abuse, and I hope that other victims and survivors will have the confidence to come forward - we are here, ready to listen."