Patient Who Stabbed Nurse with Scissors at Hospital Receives 28-Year Sentence
A patient who viciously attacked a nurse with a pair of scissors at the Royal Oldham Hospital has been handed a 28-year extended sentence for attempted murder. Romon Haque, 38, stabbed Acheema Cherian, a 57-year-old nurse with two decades of experience, in the head, neck, and wrist during the horrific assault on January 11 last year.
Details of the Unprovoked Attack
The court heard that Haque had been admitted to the hospital under the Mental Health Act, suffering from drink and drug withdrawal. After a brief interaction with Mrs. Cherian, described as a "kind and patient" nurse, he demanded methadone, a heroin substitute. When she informed him he was not due for more medication for several hours, he later got out of bed, approached her, and pulled scissors from his pocket, stabbing her three times.
The attack resulted in serious injuries to her face, neck, and hands, requiring urgent medical treatment and intensive care. Staff members intervened to pull Haque away from the victim, preventing further harm.
Impact on the Victim and Legal Proceedings
Mrs. Cherian has suffered permanent damage to one of her hands from defending herself during the assault. Despite returning to work at Royal Oldham Hospital, where she has been employed for 20 years, she now faces ongoing psychological trauma and fear in her workplace and other settings.
At Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court, Judge Maurice Greene described the attack as "determined and targeted," with blows that were "forceful and repeated." Haque, who had a history of violence and drug use spanning 19 years, was found guilty of attempted murder in July last year after being deemed fit to stand trial. He had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article.
Sentencing and Police Response
Following a sentencing hearing, Haque received an extended sentence for public protection, comprising 22 years in prison and an additional 6 years on licence. Detective Sergeant Jennifer O’Brien of Greater Manchester Police commented on the case, stating:
"This was a horrific, unprovoked attack on a woman who was simply doing her job for those in need in a hospital. Emergency workers should never face violence from the very people they are trying to help, and I am glad Haque is now behind bars following this vile incident."
The court noted that Haque had been suffering from psychosis at the time of the attack but was still held accountable for his actions, highlighting the severe consequences of violence against healthcare professionals.
