Henry Nowak Family Demand Government Action on Knife Crime, Condemn Police Conduct

The family of Henry Nowak, the 18-year-old student fatally stabbed in Southampton in December, has publicly stated they will endure their grief "every single day" and urged the government to recognise knife crime as a "national emergency".

Digwa Sentenced for Murder

Vickrum Digwa, 23, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years for using a 21cm blade to kill Nowak. Digwa had falsely claimed to police that he was the victim of a racist attack, leading officers to arrest and handcuff Nowak as he succumbed to his injuries.

Southampton Crown Court heard Judge William Mousley KC confirm that Nowak had made no racist remarks to Digwa. The judge noted that Digwa's actions had "stirred up racial tension in Southampton and across the country which has made many Sikhs worried about their safety."

Police Apology for "Inhumane" Treatment

Nowak's family described the police's treatment of him as "inhumane and degrading". Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has issued an apology, with Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Robert France expressing regret for Nowak's arrest and handcuffing. The force also pledged to implement recommendations from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is investigating the officers' conduct.

Henry's sister, Olivia Nowak, conveyed her profound loss in a court statement, describing her brother as her "best friend" and recalling the "unbreakable bond" they shared. His mother, Lucy Ross, highlighted the family's immense pride in Henry being the first grandchild to attend university, stating that his death left "a hole in our hearts that can never be repaired."

Despite their criticisms of the initial police response, Mark Nowak, Henry's father, expressed "heartfelt gratitude" to the murder investigation team for securing justice for their son.