Man who tried to set police vehicles on fire before stabbing officer pleads guilty

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 28th March 2025, at 14:00hrs

Alexander Stephen Dighton, 28, from Llantrisant, has pleaded guilty to a series of charges, including the attempted murder of a police officer, following a violent incident at Talbot Green Police Station on January 31st.

The plea was entered at the Central Criminal Court, Old Bailey.

Dighton admitted to 10 offences, including:

* Attempted murder of a police officer
* Attempt to cause grievous bodily harm to a second officer
* Threatening a third officer with an offensive weapon
* Assault of an emergency worker
* Possession of an offensive weapon
* Attempted arson
* Two counts of possession of a bladed article
* Two counts of criminal damage

The incident, which resulted in injuries to three police officers, saw Dighton arrive at the police station armed with a wooden pole, a hatchet, propellant, and tobacco tins.

CCTV footage showed him attempting to set fire to police vehicles and then using the wooden pole to smash windows. He then assaulted officers and stabbed one in the leg with a knife. He was also found to be wearing body armour.

The Counter Terrorism Division of the Crown Prosecution Service has argued that Dighton’s actions were motivated by anti-government ideology, thus constituting a terrorist connection.

Dighton himself made admissions regarding this motivation.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Williams, from Counter Terrorism Policing Wales, praised the swift and brave actions of the South Wales Police officers involved, stating,

“They undoubtedly prevented further harm being caused to their colleagues due to their fast response and professionalism. The officers were fortunate to walk away without more serious injuries being inflicted.

Dighton arrived at Talbot Green Police station with the intent to cause serious harm to police officers due to his anti-government mindset. He saw the police as an extension of the government and he came prepared to cause as much damage and destruction as he possibly could.”

Local policing commander, Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones, expressed his appreciation for the officers’ bravery and professionalism, particularly in light of the recent fatal shooting of Joanne Penney in the area.

Bethan David, Head of the Counter Terrorism Division for the Crown Prosecution Service, confirmed that the full facts of the case would be presented at Dighton’s sentencing hearing on May 13th at the Central Criminal Court.

The incident has caused significant concern within the local community, and authorities have reassured residents that they are taking all necessary steps to ensure public safety.