Isn't there something about using equal plus a little more force to protect yourself?
But if course no one will tell you what that little bit extra is..
If someone comes at you with a screwdriver, using equal force would be using a screwdriver to defend yourself,
But would the "little bit extra" be threatening with a larger screw driver ( do people keep them in the kitchen? )
Or pre-empting a possible attack by doing unto others as they would do unto you, only do it first ..
Obviously its difficult to see in side the intruders mind, but if you go to rob a place carrying a weapon, surely the intent would be to use it,
if threatening didn't work?
From the UK Gov site
https://www.gov.uk/reasonable-force-against-intruders
You don’t have to wait to be attacked before defending yourself in your home.
However, you could be prosecuted if, for example, you:
- carry on attacking the intruder even if you’re no longer in danger
Does it say anywhere how man times the guy actually stabbed the intruder?
If its once, ( going on the Gov. statement) I'd say he's "innocent"
If it was a few times, that may be a different matter ..