Islington, United Kingdom – A man has been sentenced to prison for a violent homophobic attack carried out in Islington, following a nationwide manhunt that led to his capture. Alex Ogden, 28, was found guilty of grievous bodily harm and sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court after admitting to the offense.
The incident occurred when Ogden assaulted a man in his 50s at an address in Islington, using a knife and hurling homophobic slurs at the victim, resulting in facial cuts and a broken nose. Following the attack, Ogden fled the scene, prompting an investigation by the Metropolitan Police and the initiation of a national manhunt starting on November 1.
After an informant disclosed Ogden’s whereabouts, he was apprehended in Southwark on November 2. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Ogden had an extensive criminal history with 39 prior convictions, primarily in the north of England, including Yorkshire and train-related infractions.
Ogden was sentenced to 32 months in prison and issued a five-year restraining order to protect the victim. Upon his release, he will be placed on license. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley commended the officers involved in securing the conviction, emphasizing the gravity of hate crimes and encouraging other potential victims to come forward.
The conviction underscores the Metropolitan Police’s dedication to addressing hate crimes within the LGBTQ+ community and prosecuting individuals who engage in harmful conduct. The public is urged to report any instances of hate crimes to combat intolerance and ensure justice prevails.