Henry Nowak’s killer has minimum term increased to 25 years by Court of Appeal
The Court of Appeal has increased the minimum prison sentence for Vickrum Digwa, who murdered 18-year-old Henry Nowak, from 21 to 25 years. The court deemed the original sentence unduly lenient given the nature of the crime.
Why it matters
This case clarifies legal sentencing guidelines regarding the use of religious items, such as a kirpan, when used as a weapon in a violent crime.
Image source, Police handout Image caption, Vickrum Digwa must serve at least 24 years and 190 days before he can be considered for parole
The murderer of Henry Nowak has had his minimum prison term increased to 25 years.
Vickrum Digwa stabbed the 18-year-old student with a large dagger in Belmont Road, Southampton, on 3 December 2025.
His 21-year sentence was reviewed at the Court of Appeal, following a referral from the Attorney General, where judges agreed it was "unduly lenient" and refused him permission to appeal against it.
The Lady Chief Justice said the original term "did not adequately reflect the overall seriousness of the murder".
Digwa, then 22, told police Henry had attacked and racially abused him, which led to Henry being handcuffed as he lay dying.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in