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A probation officer has been stabbed by an offender they were supervising in what has been described as a “serious assault.”

The Sun has reported this incident.

Aerial view of the Radcliffe Camera, Codrington Library, Hertford College (Old Quadrangle), and All Souls' College in Oxford.An emergency meeting is being convened for probation officers in the Thames Valley area today following the assault in Oxford.Credit: PA: Press Association

The suspect has been apprehended, and the probation office has since been closed.

The victim was transported to the hospital, and their injuries have been deemed non-critical.

An emergency meeting is taking place for probation officers in the Thames Valley area today.

This incident follows previous calls for enhanced protection after a woman was stabbed in Preston in August.

In the aftermath of that incident, a petition advocating for improved security garnered over 15,000 signatures.

There were suggestions for the installation of airport-style metal detectors in offices; however, no action has been taken as of yet.

NAPO, the union representing probation workers, issued a statement: “We received news yesterday afternoon that a staff member in the Oxford PDU was the victim of a serious assault by a probation client, resulting in stab wounds that are not classified as critical.”

“The suspect has been detained by the police, and witness statements are currently being collected.”

“We understand that the office has been closed and that PAM assist resources are available for staff.”

“The thoughts and best wishes of NAPO members everywhere are with the victim and all witnesses of this terrible attack.”

A prison warden opening a cell with a bundle of keys.A probation officer was stabbed by an offender they were supervising on Wednesday. Stock imageCredit: Alamy

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to the probation officer?

The probation officer was stabbed by an offender they were supervising during a serious assault. Fortunately, their injuries have been classified as non-critical.

What actions are being taken in response to this incident?

An emergency meeting is being held for probation officers in the Thames Valley area, and the office where the incident occurred has been closed.

What has the union said about the incident?

NAPO, the union for probation workers, expressed their concern and extended their best wishes to the victim and witnesses of the attack. They also mentioned that resources are being made available for the staff affected.