Operation Trident Secures Another Conviction

A man has been jailed for an indeterminate life sentence for the shooting a police officer.

Joel Johnson pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court in July to attempted GBH, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition.

He will not be eligible for release for eight years and five months.

A charge of attempted murder of a police officer was allowed to remain on file.

Johnson was arrested after firing five shots at a police car in Hatcham Park Road, on 22 December, 2007.

He had fired the shots after fleeing from a BMW, which had been stopped in New Cross Road by officers using automatic number plate recognition technology.

The police vehicle was hit three times and the officer in the passenger seat was struck by one bullet which hit his bullet-proof jacket just above the waist then ricocheted off, hitting his right index finger.

Johnson then fled the scene.

The 42-year-old officer was later treated for minor injuries to his finger.

A second man remains on police bail in connection with the incident.

Detective Inspector Gordon Allison of Operation Trident South Shootings Team said: "It is fortunate there was no loss of life that night and we are not now dealing with a murder investigation.

"The conviction was secured by the support of the witnesses and the victim in this case, proving that witnesses can give evidence without fear of retribution.

"It will have a significant and positive impact on communities in south London, reducing crime and increasing community safety."

(DS)