A KNIFE-WIELDING thug who left his victim with a six inch head wound which needed 14 stitches has been sentenced to four and-a-half years in a young offenders institute.

The victim, who was in his 20s, was stabbed following an argument involving a group of men in Daiglen Drive, South Ockendon.

When he was stabbed he sustained a six inch wound to his head which later required 14 stitches in hospital.

The incident took place after a disturbance on Broxburn Parade involving an argument between a group of people.

Daimar Roach was arrested a short time after the disturbance and then charged by Essex Police.

Roach, 19, of Wrights Road, London E3, admitted grievous bodily harm with intent and threatening a person with a blade and was jailed for three years and nine months at Basildon Crown Court on Wednesday 27 November.

He was also sentenced to nine months for unrelated drugs offences. The sentences will run consecutively.

Detective Constable Samantha Lewin, investigating officer with Grays CID, said: “This was a violent attack which could have left the victim really seriously injured.

“Daimar Roach is a dangerous person comfortable with endangering the safety of others and carrying a weapon.

“He will now spend a significant amount of time behind bars and Essex is a safer place as a result.”

Another man, a 19-year-old from South Ockendon, was charged with affray but was later told he would face no further action.