Albanian Man Jailed for 10 Years After Chainsaw Chase of Police Officer
An Albanian national who attempted to murder a police officer by chasing him with a running chainsaw has been sentenced to ten years in prison following a terrifying incident described by a judge as being “like a horror film.”
Liridon Kastrati was sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow after being found guilty of the attempted murder of Police Constable Gary Cowan.
The court heard that on May 6, 2024, in Paisley, Renfrewshire, PC Cowan was lawfully on duty when Kastrati became aggressive, armed himself with a chainsaw, and began pursuing the officer while revving the weapon and making threats to kill him.
PC Cowan was forced to flee for his life and urgently call for assistance from colleagues, narrowly avoiding serious injury or death.
Prosecutors described the incident as a deliberate and sustained attempt to kill a serving police officer, highlighting Kastrati’s complete disregard for public safety and the authority of the State. The court was told that only the officer’s quick thinking and the swift response of fellow officers prevented a fatal outcome.
In handing down the sentence, the judge emphasized the gravity of the offence, stating that attacks on police officers strike at the very heart of public order. The judge also noted that the use of a chainsaw—capable of inflicting catastrophic and fatal injuries—was a significant aggravating factor.
As the sentence was delivered, Kastrati reportedly banged on the dock and shouted abuse at the court, directing an expletive-laden insult at the judge.
Police officials later welcomed the sentence, saying it sends a clear message that violence against law-enforcement officers will be met with the full force of the law.
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