Richard Barraclough KC Leads Defence in High-Profile Brompton Barracks Case

Richard Barraclough KC, leading counsel for the defence, has played a central role in proceedings arising from the serious knife attack on an Army officer outside Brompton Barracks in Kent.

Mr Barraclough KC, instructed alongside Thomas Stern, acts for Anthony Esan, who has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton and to possession of two bladed weapons. The plea was entered at Maidstone Crown Court on 8 January, with Mr Esan appearing via video link from Broadmoor Hospital.

The incident occurred on 23 July 2024, when Lt Col Teeton, wearing military uniform, was stabbed multiple times in Sally Port Gardens, close to the Royal School of Military Engineering. The attack resulted in life-threatening injuries, prompting a complex and sensitive criminal investigation.

Throughout the proceedings, Mr Barraclough KC has been closely involved in managing the defence in circumstances where the defendant’s mental health has been a central issue. The case was repeatedly adjourned to allow for extensive psychiatric assessment to determine Mr Esan’s fitness to plead, reflecting the careful and considered approach taken by the defence to ensure the fairness and integrity of the process.

Sentencing is scheduled to take place between 9 and 11 February 2026 at Maidstone Crown Court. The court is expected to hear evidence from three consultant psychiatrists, with issues of mental health likely to be central to submissions on disposal.

Kent Police have confirmed that there is no evidence linking the attack to terrorism, and the case has proceeded as one involving serious violence rather than extremist offending. The matter has nonetheless attracted significant public and media attention, with senior political figures describing the attack as shocking.

https://www.cps.gov.uk/south-east/news/guilty-plea-attempted-murder-soldier-street