Full Breakdown
Chainsaw Attack on Police Officer Results in 10-Year Sentence
1/20/2026, 10:30:31 PM
Incident Overview: Attempted Murder in Paisley
On May 6, 2024, Liridon Kastrati, a 32-year-old Albanian national, attempted to murder Police Constable (PC) Gary Cowan in Paisley, Renfrewshire, by chasing him with a running chainsaw. The incident began when Kastrati crashed a stolen Volkswagen into a marked police vehicle, prompting PC Cowan to approach him for an arrest. Instead of complying, Kastrati fled, retrieved a chainsaw from his car, and pursued Cowan while shouting expletives, including "f*** the police." The attack was described by Judge William Gallacher as reminiscent of a scene from a horror film.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Kastrati was convicted of attempted murder following a trial at the High Court in Paisley in November 2024. During sentencing on Tuesday, Judge Gallacher emphasized the severity of Kastrati's actions, stating, "I have never encountered the use of a chainsaw as a weapon being wielded." He noted that the potential for catastrophic harm was significant, as Kastrati chased Cowan for a considerable distance while revving the chainsaw. The judge sentenced Kastrati to 10 years in prison, backdated to May 2024, and highlighted the extreme nature of the violence involved.
Eyewitness Accounts and Evidence
CCTV and mobile phone footage captured the alarming pursuit, showing Kastrati brandishing the chainsaw and causing nearby vehicles to slow down. PC Cowan testified that he feared for his life, believing Kastrati would "saw my arms off, chop my head off." His colleagues arrived shortly after the incident, assisting in Kastrati's apprehension. A member of the public even attempted to intervene by urging Cowan to enter a vehicle for safety.
Official Statements and Responses
Following the sentencing, Chief Superintendent Rhona Fraser of Police Scotland commended the bravery of the officers involved and acknowledged the traumatic nature of the incident. She stated, "Every officer has the fundamental right to come home from each shift unharmed." Fraser also expressed gratitude towards the public for their assistance during the crisis.
Defense and Mitigation
In his defense, Kastrati's lawyer, John Scullion KC, argued that his client acted "spontaneously and impulsively" due to stress related to his immigration status. Scullion claimed that Kastrati had the chainsaw for a gardening job and expressed remorse for his actions. However, the judge deemed the violent nature of the attack as necessitating a significant penalty.
Immediate Aftermath and Future Implications
After the sentencing, Kastrati reacted aggressively, banging on the dock and shouting at the judge, calling him a "terrorist." This outburst underscored the volatile nature of the situation. PC Cowan has since returned to work, receiving support from Police Scotland following the traumatic experience.
Conclusion: Broader Implications
This incident highlights the unpredictable and dangerous situations police officers may face while performing their duties. The court's decision to impose a substantial sentence reflects the seriousness of the attack and serves as a reminder of the need for officer safety in law enforcement.
