Birmingham knifeman jailed for life for attack on man, 72, as he walked down a neighbourhood road in broad daylight

The 72 year-old victim was walking along Russell Road, Moseley, in Birmingham, at around 1pm on June 20 last year. 

Craig Holden then walked up behind him, snatched his bag from his shoulder before he pushed him into a wall and lunged at him multiple times with a knife.

The man received several injuries but managed to avoid more serious injury after he was able to jump out of the way from the violent knife attacks.

However, Holden slashed the man on his arm and stole his bag which contained a mobile phone, credit cards and cash.

An investigation was immediately launched by West Midlands Police, which saw Holden identified and arrested two days later.

The 43-year-old showed no remorse in interview and was charged with multiple offences including robbery, wounding with intent, possession of a knife, and burglary.

Holden pleaded guilty in October, and the 43-year-old was jailed on Monday (January 12) at Birmingham Crown Court.

Holden was given life imprisonment - serving a minimum of six years and five months in prison.

PC Wainwright, from Birmingham Police, said: "This was a violent attack on an innocent man who was simply walking along the street. It was only thanks to his quick reactions he was able to avoid more serious injury.

"Holden has shown no remorse and will rightfully be spending time behind bars."