13/06/2008

Car Chase Man Jailed For Assaulting Police

A man has been sentenced to three years after threatening and assaulting police officers after a high-speed car chase.

Keith Smith, 38, of Firbank Road, was found guilty of making threats to kill, assault causing actual bodily harm, dangerous driving and two charges of common assault, at Manchester Square Crown Court.

Smith was speeding in a van on Greenwood Road in Wythenshawe overtaking two plain-clothes police officers in an unmarked car, last August.

When officers tried to stop him, he continued along the road at speeds of up to 80mph.

When he was eventually apprehended, Smith tried to drive off again before a violent struggle ensued and more officers were called to assist.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said that Smith tried to punch and bite the officers and threatened an officer with a pointed chisel making threats to kill.

The officers involved in the altercation suffered facial injuries and were treated in hospital.

Detective Constable Matt Crofts said: "This was a terrifying attack on two police officers who were simply trying to stop a dangerous driver.

"This incident demonstrates the dangers that police officers face on a daily basis. Anyone who endangers the lives of police officers should and will be brought to justice.

"This sentence reflects how seriously judges take these offences."

Smith has been banned from driving for 18 months and given 8 penalty points.

(DS)






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