Four arrested following assaults on officers in Essex
Essex Police has confirmed that a number of arrests have been made over the weekend after four officers were assaulted during an incident on Saturday afternoon (July 23).
Two officers were attacked by a group in Pitsea after they questioned a motorcyclist, who they suspected of being too young to drive.
A number of items were taken from the officers during the confrontation.
Two other officers were assaulted when they responded to help their colleagues, and two police cars had their tyres slashed.
A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of assault of an emergency worker and possession of a bladed article and a 19-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and obstructing a police officer. Both have been released on bail.
A 48-year-old woman from Basildon and a 16-year-old boy from Basildon were arrested on suspicion of theft and both remain in custody.
Essex Police said as part of its investigation, it has also recovered a number of items that were taken from officers.
The force added that its inquiries were continuing and anyone else it believes was involved in the incident “can expect a knock on their door”.
Essex Police said two officers were carrying out inquiries in Elm Green, Pitsea,on a separate matter shortly after 3.30pm when they began speaking with a motorcyclist who they suspected of being too young to ride and who was not wearing a safety helmet.
It added: “During that exchange, the rider attempted to drive off towards the officers; a man and a woman.
“Whilst the officers attempted to deal with the incident and make an arrest, a group of people gathered at the scene, some of whom then assaulted the officers.
“Both officers sustained injuries but did continue to make an arrest despite the challenges posed to them. They have opted to remain on duty. Their welfare is paramount, and they are being supported.
“During the incident, officers quickly responded to help their colleagues. As they did so, two of them were also assaulted. Thankfully, they did not sustain serious injury and have also remained on duty.”
Detective Inspector Nick Brunton, who is leading our investigation, said: “Those who know they were involved in this incident in any way can be assured, we will be collating evidence to identify you and you can expect a knock on your door.
“We do not tolerate assaults on our officers. The officers who were in Elm Green were there in order to help the community. Instead, they have sustained injuries after being assaulted by several people simply for having the courage to carry out their duty.
“Thankfully none of the four officers who were hurt were seriously injured but this incident could have ended up being significantly worse.”