KANSAS CITY, Kan. -- Clifford Currie set his boss on fire and tried to kill her while the two were on the job in September 2016 at Munson Army Health Center in Leavenworth.
A federal judge today sentenced Currie to 20 years in federal prison for his near-murderous act.
The judge also ordered Currie to pay more than $3 million in restitution to his victim, Katie Ann Blanchard, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Kansas.
RELATED: Ft. Leavenworth employee set on fire describes horrifying attack
Blanchard released the following statement to 41 Action News:
"I am thankful that justice was served and that my attacker received the maximum sentence. Though, after a year of emotional and physical pain no amount of prison time seems long enough. I will continue to advocate for safe work environments for healthcare workers and bring an end to the injustice of Feres doctrine.
Please follow my journey on progress and fight for policy changes at https://thearmynurse.com."
Blanchard's had this to say:
Today, justice was served even though it does not make things easier for Katie, our family, friends, and coworkers. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support. We pray that the policies and laws will change to demand accountability towards offenders of workplace violence.
Blanchard told co-workers she worried about her safety around Currie.
Currie was a civilian employee at the health center.
Blanchard is a member of the United States Army.
The attack began when Currie, 55, threw a flammable liquid on Blanchard, according to a news release. He then set her on fire and cut her with a razor.
Blanchard suffered severe burns and cuts to her upper body.
A co-worker heard Blanchard scream and ran to help her, according to the news release.
Others came and were able to hold Currie until law officers arrived.
Currie had worked at the health center for four years.
