Home / Crime and Justice / Man Sentenced After Drug-Induced Rage Injures Police Officer
Man Sentenced After Drug-Induced Rage Injures Police Officer
11 Sep
Summary
- Knell received a 42-month sentence for multiple offenses.
- The incident occurred during a cocaine-induced psychosis episode.
- An off-duty officer was injured when his gun discharged during a struggle.
Kyle Knell, 30, was sentenced to a 42-month term split between prison and licence at Belfast Crown Court. He pleaded guilty to six charges, including grievous bodily harm with intent and possessing a firearm, stemming from an incident on January 6, 2025.
Knell, under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, experienced a psychotic episode. He confronted an off-duty police officer and his partner at their home, escalating into a struggle for the officer's firearm. The weapon discharged during the fight, wounding the officer and his partner.
Knell's defense highlighted his PTSD, cocaine addiction, and the drug-induced psychosis at the time. The judge acknowledged Knell's remorse and troubled background but stated the custody threshold had been passed.
