The government says it will “toughen up” on knife crime after the case of Gillingham dad-of-two Dave Young, fatally stabbed on New Year’s Day, was raised in the House of Commons.

The 28-year-old builder, of Beatty Avenue, died four days after being stabbed in the thigh near Medway Maritime Hospital, just a few hours into 2013.

Gillingham and Rainham MP Rehman Chishti spoke out in Parliament after hearing of Mr Young’s death.

He told MPs on Thursday: “Following the tragic death of my constituent David Young, who was stabbed on New Year’s Day, may we have an urgent debate on tackling knife crime?”

He was told by Commons leader Andrew Lansley: “The government [will] be looking at toughening up knife sentences and at the use of cautions.

“The Home Office and the Ministry of Justice are working together to review the punishments available for carrying a knife.”

Two teenagers – Stuart Porter, 18, and a 17-year-old who is too young to be named – will face murder charges over the incident.

Porter, of Buttermere Close, Gillingham, and his co-accused, from Strood, have already been charged with wounding Mr Young with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Edmund Burge, prosecuting, told a judge at Maidstone Crown Court on Thursday both teenagers would be charged with murder.

Mr Young, who attended Robert Napier School, was stabbed as two groups clashed in Windmill Road. He had been walking home with friends after a night out at the Casino Rooms nightclub in Rochester.

Mr Burge said another man was recovering from being stabbed during the incident and charges were being considered in respect of him.

The two teenagers are due to return to court on March 21, to enter pleas.
A provisional trial date was set for June 24.

Judge Jeremy Carey refused a bail application by Porter and he and the other teenager were remanded in custody.

Police say they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident.
Almost 200 people have donated to a fund set up to help David Young’s partner Kirsty Bryant and their two daughters cope financially.

The effort, supported by Chelsea footballer Ryan Bertrand, who went to the same school as the victim, has raised more than £5,000.

Friends are also arranging a fundraising five-a-side football tournament this week in memory of Mr Young, who played for Featherby in Division 1 of the Medway Messenger Saturday league.

To donate to the fund, visit www.gofundme.com/daveyoung