Why was Callum Parslow given a life sentence for attempted murder?

Parslow, 32, formerly of Hereford, but latterly of Bromyard Terrace, Worcester, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 22 years and eight months at Woolwich Crown Court on Friday (January 17) after he stabbed Nahom Hagos at the Pear Tree Inn,  Hindlip, near Worcester, last April.

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Mr Justice Dove, the man presiding of Parslow’s sentencing, said: “The pre-planned nature of your attack, the way in which it was conducted targeting an individual seeking asylum and its accompaniment by your manifesto make it clear this attack was intended to intimidate a section of the public, namely people seeking asylum and those providing them with support.

“This was undoubtedly a terrorist attack and this is undoubtedly an aggravating feature of this case.”

Parslow’s victim, Nahom Hagos, suffered a stab wound to his chest and injuries to his hand which have plagued him since the incident.

Mr Justice Dove said: “There have been long term physical and psychological consequences of your attack on Mr Hagos.

“He continues to suffer from pain and loss of function in his left hand, an inability to lift objects, bend his fingers or carry out many day-to-day activities such as showering or dressing himself.

“He is suffering from PTSD and severe depression as a result of your assault upon him.”

There were mitigating circumstances in the case that Mr Justice Dove took into account, such as Parslow’s diagnoses for ASD and ADHD.

He said: “The impact of these conditions does require some reduction in the assessment of your culpability and I have taken this into account when making the my evaluation of the appropriate sentence in your case.”

However, the judge also said that Parslow’s previous convictions and the fact that the attack happened whilst he was under investigation for other offences were aggravating circumstances to the case.

Mr Justice Dove said: “I have formed the view that an extended sentence would not be sufficient in your case.

“This is a case in which a life sentence must be imposed.

“The most significant justification for a life sentence is that it is not possible for me to assess when you will cease to be dangerous.

“Having considered the position carefully, I do not consider that there is any suitable alternative sentence in your case.”

A minimum term for a life sentence is how long an offender must serve before they can make an application for release and is fixed at two-thirds of the sentence that would be handed out if the judge decided against giving a life sentence.

The racially aggravated nature of the attack and the effect of injuries to Mr Hagos, as well as Parslow’s outstanding convictions for malicious communications all contributed to Mr Justice Dove’s decision.

“Taking account of all the matters which I have set out, I have concluded that, were I not passing a life sentence, the appropriate sentence in your case would have been one of 34 years for all your offences.

“It therefore follows that your case of attempted murder should be one of life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years and eight months.”

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