A Darlington man has been put behind bars for six years after he stabbed his victim in an unprovoked street attack last year.

Artur Czaplowski, 34, was armed with a knife hidden in his trousers on Neasham Road, Darlington on May 21 when he decided to attack a victim as he walked home from the shops.

The victim suffered stab wounds to the arm and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Artur Czaplowski, 34.Artur Czaplowski, 34. (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

Following a police investigation, Mr Czaplowski was arrested and charged for wounding with intent.

At his trial at Teesside Crown Court in November, Mr Czaplowski denied the offence but was found guilty by a jury and was remanded for sentencing.

He has now been jailed for six years.

Detective Sergeant Liam Robertson, of Durham Constabulary, said: “This was a nasty and unprovoked attack which were it not for the victim trying to protect himself could have resulted in much more serious injuries.

“There was no need for Czaplowski to arm himself with a knife that day. He knew what the consequences could be, and he just did not care.

“The victim has been incredibly brave throughout this investigation and hopefully he can now start to move on with his life, knowing his attacker is behind bars.”