Man charged with attempted murder of police officer in Kalajoki knife attack

A middle-aged man is facing charges of attempted murder after attacking a police officer with a filleting knife in Kalajoki, western Finland, prosecutors confirmed in Oulu District Court on Thursday.

The prosecutor demanded a prison sentence of at least eight years and four months, alleging the defendant intentionally tried to kill a senior constable during the February incident. The knife struck the officer’s right leg after being swung at the torso, according to court documents.

Police used a firearm to subdue the suspect, who had been detained following a domestic violence call to a private residence. Both the officer and the attacker required hospital treatment for their injuries.

In addition to attempted murder, the man is charged with violently resisting a public official. He has denied all charges. The trial is ongoing.