Violent Knife Attack in Devon: Jon Ross Jailed for 20 Years
Jon Ross, 62, was slammed with a total 20-year prison sentence after viciously stabbing two police officers in a savage knife attack in a Devon village. The brutal assault left PCs Darren Brimacombe and Timothy Willett seriously injured and unable to return to frontline duties.
Knife Rampage on Officers After Disturbance Call
In the early hours of 9 July 2021, Ross, known to police from previous encounters, was found drinking in his car by PCs Brimacombe and Willett following reports of a disturbance. Without warning, Ross launched a frenzied assault, stabbing and slashing at the officers with a knife.
- PC Brimacombe suffered severe arm wounds and deep cuts to his head and face, nearly losing the tip of his nose.
- PC Willett was stabbed in the forearm and sustained injuries to his fingers while wrestling the blade from Ross.
- Both officers had to undergo surgery and remain off frontline duties, seeking other roles within the force.
PC Willett finally subdued Ross using a Taser, allowing the handcuffed attacker to be detained. Ross was found to be twice over the drink-drive limit at the time.
Double Sentence for Assault and Child Sex Offences
At Truro Crown Court on 20 October, Judge Simon Carr handed Ross a 12-year sentence for the attacks on the officers, to be served consecutively with an eight-year term for historic child sexual offences. Ross will serve two-thirds of the total sentence before becoming eligible for release and must remain on the Sex Offender’s Register for life.
“Frenzied is a term overused by the court but not in this case. Armed with a knife, you stabbed out repeatedly causing permanent injury… The psychological damage has been immense,” said Judge Carr.
Police Praise Courage and Call for Support
Detective Constable Craig Ferguson described the attack as the worst of his 18-year career, praising the professionalism and bravery of the two officers. “Jon Ross employed an extreme and savage level of violence. A significant risk has now been removed from our community,” he said.
Detective Inspector Debbie Wyatt thanked the sexual abuse victim for her bravery in coming forward. “Sexual assaults have a devastating impact. We are committed to making our communities safer,” she added.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Parker highlighted the dangers officers face daily and urged victims to report abuse. “Assault on duty should never be seen as ‘part of the job’,” he said, commending the quick response of emergency workers who helped prevent a worse outcome.
Help and Support Contacts
- Contact Devon & Cornwall Police via their website or call 101.
- Freephone NSPCC helpline: 0808 800 5000 – anonymous advice and reporting of non-recent abuse.
West Devon remains a safe community, but this shocking assault is a stark reminder of the risks police face daily.
