“A man from Neilston, armed with a knife, laughed as he repeatedly attempted to stab police officers in Northampton, resulting in a six-year prison sentence.
Gordon Finnlayson, residing at Duncarnock Crescent, pleaded guilty to two charges of attempted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm at Northampton Crown Court on April 24. With 35 prior convictions, the 39-year-old returned to court on June 25, where the severity of his dangerousness to both officers and the public was reflected in the judge’s sentencing decision.
Northamptonshire Police have released body-worn video footage from the incident, illustrating the unpredictability and violence of Finnlayson’s actions that night.
Detective Inspector Nick Peters of Northampton CID commented, “These officers displayed remarkable courage in confronting a violent and sustained assault by a larger, armed individual who appeared to derive pleasure from inflicting harm. Despite Finnlayson’s attempts to isolate and harm them, their steadfast teamwork and commitment to each other prevented serious injury.”
The incident unfolded on March 8 following a 999 call from Police Scotland reporting an assault on a Scottish man in Northampton. Upon arrival at a rental property on Hazelwood Road, Finnlayson brandished a Stanley knife despite warnings to desist, initiating the attack on the officers.
Additional officers arrived to subdue Finnlayson, who continued to exhibit defiance and amusement during his arrest and subsequent custody. While both officers required medical assessment, fortunately, neither sustained serious injuries.
Finnlayson’s criminal history, which includes multiple assaults on police officers, underscored the gravity of the incident. Detective Inspector Peters emphasized the force’s commitment to tackling violent crime and securing robust penalties for assaults on officers, expressing satisfaction with the outcome of the case.”
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