EXETER MAN CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTED MURDER AFTER STABBING FRIEND , WHO HAD BRAIN INJURY, 38 TIMES
David Johnson, aged 33 and living on Foxhayes Road, Exeter, was convicted of attempted murder following a severe attack on his friend.During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Johnson first restrained the victim, Danny Ross, 44, using his belt to suffocate him.
Ross was described as vulnerable due to a prior brain injury.
Johnson then stabbed Ross 38 times with a kitchen knife, claiming in court that Ross owed money to his father.
Exeter Crown Court heard that the assault was premeditated, and Johnson only expressed remorse afterward, calling emergency services with a fake accent and taking responsibility for the injuries.
A psychological evaluation was ordered by Judge Graham Cottle before sentencing, scheduled for May 18, to assess Johnson's potential danger to others.
Despite overwhelming evidence, Johnson continued to deny guilt, suggesting that Ross caused his own injuries in an effort to claim compensation.
The judge emphasized the need to understand Johnson’s threat level to the community, given his ongoing denial of responsibility.
