Full Breakdown
Anthony Esan Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder of Army Officer
1/8/2026, 10:09:59 PM
Overview of the Incident
On July 23, 2024, Anthony Esan, a 25-year-old man from Rochester, attempted to murder Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton outside Brompton Barracks in Chatham, Kent. Esan admitted to stabbing Lt Col Teeton multiple times in Sally Port Gardens. He appeared via video link at Maidstone Crown Court from Broadmoor Hospital, where he is being held, and pleaded guilty to attempted murder and possession of two bladed weapons.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred around 6 PM when Esan, wearing a ski mask, approached Lt Col Teeton, who was in uniform. Witnesses reported seeing Esan pull the officer to the ground and stab him repeatedly before fleeing on a moped. Two knives were left at the scene, with three additional knives found on Esan's moped. Lt Col Teeton was airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries but was discharged a few weeks later.
Background and Context
The case has faced multiple delays due to investigations into Esan's mental health and fitness to plead. Initially scheduled for trial in early 2025, the proceedings were postponed as his defense counsel sought to establish his capacity to stand trial. Prosecutor Rajni Prashar described the incident as a violent attack on a member of the military who was simply walking along the street.
Official Statements & Responses
Katie Samways, a specialist prosecutor from the Crown Prosecution Service, stated, “Anthony Esan carried out a violent attack on a member of our military... following an extensive police investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service worked to build the strongest possible case that left Esan with no alternative but to plead guilty.” Lt Col Teeton, present in court during the hearing, expressed gratitude for the support received through a GoFundMe campaign that raised nearly £50,000 for him and his family.
Criticism & Opposition
While the prosecution has emphasized the severity of Esan's actions, there has been no public statement from Esan's defense regarding the motivations behind the attack. The lack of a clear motive has raised questions among observers and legal experts about the circumstances leading to the violent incident.
What's Next
Esan is scheduled for sentencing from February 9 to 11, 2026. The court will consider various sentencing options, including a discretionary life sentence, a determinate prison term, or a mental health disposal. Lt Col Teeton and his wife are expected to provide victim impact statements during the sentencing hearing.
Verbatim Quotes
“None of us can imagine what the victim and his family have been through over the last 18 months, and we hope that today’s guilty plea brings them some small comfort.” — Katie Samways, Specialist Prosecutor
“This is plainly a sentencing exercise with some measure of complexity given the sentencing tribunal will have to consider the issues of culpability and disposal.” — Alison Morgan KC, Prosecutor
“I hope at least that's some reassurance and comfort.” — Judge Julian Smith
