Terror Attacker Gets Life for Police Station Attack

A 28-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years and 235 days after carrying out a terrorism-related attack on Talbot Green Police Station in January.

Alexander Dighton from Talbot Green appeared at Central Criminal Court today where he was sentenced for attempted murder and nine other offences following the violent attack on 31st January.

CCTV footage showed Dighton arriving outside the police station carrying a wooden pole and rucksack containing a hatchet, propellant, and tobacco tins. He attempted to set fire to police vehicles before smashing windows with the pole and assaulting three officers – stabbing one in the leg with a knife. Officers discovered he was wearing body armour when they arrested him.

Counter Terrorism Policing Wales led the investigation after determining the incident was terrorism-related, finding that Dighton held strong anti-government, anti-Islam and anti-immigration views.

Detective Chief Inspector Leanne Williams from Counter Terrorism Policing Wales said: “We welcome the outcome at court today. On a daily basis, police officers up and down the length of the country, put their safety at risk on behalf of the public. They frequently enter situations that are uncertain, dangerous and can often be life threatening. This was no exception, and I must specifically acknowledge the courageous and determined actions of the officers that night in acting to contain the high level of threat presented to them, and ultimately the wider public, by Dighton. Our investigations demonstrated Dighton held strong anti-government, anti-Islam and anti-immigration views. He clearly hated our society and decided he was going to take a stand. We believe his distorted beliefs and mindset is what legitimised his attack on the police that day, as he considered them as representatives of the state. Counter Terrorism Policing together with wider policing as a whole, will relentlessly and vigorously pursue anyone who acts in such a way to undermine our democracy and our way of life, and ensure they are held to account for their actions.”

Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones said: “I wish to express my gratitude for the bravery and professionalism of our officers that day. It is deeply appreciated. The attack on our officers shows the often unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work, and the impact events such as this have on officers, their families, and the community. Each officer is not just a public servant but also a husband, wife, or parent, and their families are undoubtedly deeply affected by incidents such as these that officers face daily. I want to also recognise the detectives’ unwavering commitment throughout the investigation which is also commendable. Talbot Green’s reputation for being quiet and safe makes this incident all the starker, reminding us all of the unexpected risks and the existence of individuals like Alexander Dighton within our communities.”

Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: “Alexander Dighton wanted to attack the government and the state. By his own admission he wanted to take the life of a police officer, to cause damage and spill blood. We were able to show that Dighton’s attack was not only pre-meditated and meticulously planned, but that his motivations were connected to terrorism. While it is not a criminal offence to hold extreme or offensive views, it is one to carry out attempted murder and attack police officers which is what he had no option but to admit doing. He pleaded guilty, and his sentencing today reflects the severity of his actions.”