Brutal Knife Attack on Devon Cops Ends with 20-Year Jail Term
Jon Ross, 62, has been locked up for a staggering 20 years after launching a savage knife attack on two police officers in a quiet Devon village. Ross will serve 12 years for the vicious assault on PCs Darren Brimacombe and Timothy Willett, plus 8 years consecutively for historic child sex offences.
Frenzied Stabbing Leaves Officers Seriously Injured
The incident happened in the early hours of July 9, 2021, when PCs Brimacombe and Willett arrived to respond to a disturbance. Ross, found drinking in his car, suddenly swung a knife at PC Willett and then violently attacked PC Brimacombe.
- PC Brimacombe suffered severe slash wounds to his arm, head, and face, nearly losing the tip of his nose and suffering a dangerous arterial bleed.
- PC Willett was stabbed in the forearm and fingers while wrestling with Ross to protect his colleague.
- Both officers required surgery and have not returned to frontline duties, now seeking other roles within the force.
Despite Ross’s aggression, the officers remained calm, attempting to talk him down before the brutal onslaught. PC Willett eventually deployed a Taser to subdue Ross, allowing handcuffs to be applied.
Judge Condemns ‘Extreme and Savage’ Violence
Judge Simon Carr at Truro Crown Court slammed Ross’s actions: “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 judge highlighted the immense psychological trauma to the officers and praised the bravery of the sexual offence victim whose courage helped bring Ross to justice.
Ross pleaded guilty to multiple counts of assault and sexual offences against a child, the latter uncovered following an investigation that concluded in April. He was ordered to serve two-thirds of his sentence before eligibility for release and will be on the sex offenders’ register for life.
Police Praise Officers’ Bravery and Community Support
Detective Constable Craig Ferguson said, “This assault is without doubt the worst incident of its kind I have dealt with in 18 years. Despite extreme violence, the officers conducted themselves with utmost professionalism.”
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Parker added, “Being assaulted on duty should never be seen as ‘part of the job’. We will always prosecute those who attack our officers.”
Devon & Cornwall Police released shocking images of the attack scene—shared with officers’ blessing—to highlight the dangers cops face on duty. The force also commended the community for its ongoing support, reassuring residents that West Devon remains a safe place to live.
Support for Victims of Abuse
Detective Inspector Debbie Wyatt thanked the victim for her “incredible bravery” in reporting the historic abuse. Police encourage anyone affected by similar issues to come forward and seek help.
For help or to report abuse, contact the police on 101 or visit their website. The NSPCC also offers free, confidential support via their helpline on 0808 800 5000, with anonymous calls welcome.
