Stabbing Coatesville Police Officer Lands Man Behind Bars

WEST CHESTER, PA — A 22-year-old Lancaster County man was sentenced Wednesday to 16-32 years in state prison for stabbing a longtime Coatesville police officer multiple times in the face at a Turkey Hill convenience store on Kings Highway.

Michael White of Manheim pleaded guilty before Judge Patrick Carmody to attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and theft in the Sept. 3, 2021 stabbing of Coatesville Police Officer William Cahill.

Cahill, a 35-year law enforcement veteran, had to leave law enforcement as a result of his injuries.

Coatesville Police Chief Jack Laufer said Cahill was an exceptional police officer who served the community above self, and as a result of this horrible assault had to leave a career that defined him.

“Each day a law enforcement officer leaves for work there is no guarantee that he or she will return home.” Laufer said. “Our families and loved ones shoulder that burden for us as well. Thankfully, many came to his rescue that day and saved his life.”

Cahill and his partner stopped by the Turkey Hill in response to a report of a theft by the defendant when the defendant stabbed him with a knife in the head and face.

According to police:

• On Sept. 3, 2021, White was confronted by a store manager about stealing $200 from the store.
• He told the officers that he had stolen $3K from the register over the past several months and offered to return the money he stole that day.
• Officers told him he was free to leave to retrieve the money.
• After Officer Cahill shook the defendant’s hand, White shoved him and stabbed him in the head and face with a knife multiple times.

Cahill was transported to Reading Hospital where he underwent multiple surgeries. He sustained permanent nerve damage, and has extensive physical therapy.

Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan said Officer Cahill modeled exemplary professionalism and respect to the defendant during the nvestigation and, in return, was brutally assaulted to the point that he will have life-altering repercussions.

“Law enforcement make the ultimate sacrifice to put their lives on the line to protect others before themselves,” Ryan said. “We are so thankful Officer Cahill is still here with us today, and grateful to all the law enforcement agencies and good Samaritans who stepped up to help save his life.”