An 18-year-old has been jailed for six years after admitting the culpable homicide of a man stabbed during a doorstep row in Dundee.
Lennon Hathway stabbed Ali Lamb, 36, at a house in Balunie Terrace last April. The altercation began after an "offensive" remark led to a confrontation "verbally and physically", according to a court narrative.
Judge describes scene as 'chaotic'
Passing sentence on Monday, Lord Cubie described the scene as "chaotic, charged and ultimately tragic". The court heard Mr Lamb threatened to stab the teenager and armed himself with a knife from the kitchen despite attempts by Hathway's parents to restore peace.
Medics rushed to the scene and Mr Lamb was taken to Ninewells Hospital, but he died later that day after being stabbed in the back. Hathway was later found in his room by emergency services with two small puncture wounds on his chest.
Sentence and background
The judge said he had to take into account that the altercation was started by Mr Lamb. He also noted from social work reports that Hathway had a troubled upbringing and had been bullied at school.
Lord Cubie said: "I turn now to sentence and in doing so factor in that you armed yourself; you chose to come out of your room to meet the challenge. You stabbed him with considerable force, he died as a result of you conduct."
He added: "Against that the events took place in your own home, with an older and therefore more mature attacker, a friend of your father's, who had started the confrontation, continued it after the first physical action, armed himself with a knife from your parents kitchen, and came to find you. You accepted responsibility, have shown remorse and some insight and can benefit from rehabilitation with specific and structured focus."
Police response
Detective Inspector James Callander said: "While this sentencing cannot change what has happened, I hope that it brings some comfort to the family of Alistair Lamb. Our thoughts remain with them as Hathway faces the consequences of his actions."
He added: "Violence is never acceptable in our communities, and we will continue to work tirelessly, alongside our partners, to bring those responsible to justice."
