Man who tried to choke officer jailed

Always defending our communities.

PC Josh Elliott was checking out a suspected stolen car in Tow Law’s Co-op car park on Tuesday (April 1) when he came across the suspect driver, Jack Oughton, in the street.

While trying to question the 24-year-old, PC Elliott was attacked and a scuffle ensued in which Oughton continuously he continuously punched, headbutted, kicked and attempted to choke the officer.

PC Elliott managed to press his emergency button and a brave member of the public helped restrain Oughton while fellow officers raced to the scene.

Despite suffering a concussion, fractured nose and losing vision in his left eye, PC Elliott managed to arrest Oughton.

A Stanley knife Oughton had dropped during the attack was also recovered as well as cannisters of nitrous oxide.

PC Elliott was taken to hospital for treatment and thankfully his eyesight has now returned and he is anxious to get back out on duty.

Oughton, of no fixed abode, was last night charged with Assault Causing Actual Bodily Harm, driving with no licence or insurance, possession of a bladed article and possession of a Class C drug.

He was remanded and put before Newton Aycliffe magistrates this morning where he pleaded guilty to all offences.

He was sentenced to a total of 36 weeks in prison whilst also being recalled for a previous robbery for two years and three months and disqualified from driving for three years.

The knife and drugs will be destroyed.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mike Sammut praised PC Elliott for his bravery as well as the members of the public who stopped to help.

“Our officers are always the first to put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public and PC Elliott was very lucky to have not been more seriously injured so we are thankful he is recovering well.

“Oughton’s behaviour was totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated on our streets. We are glad he is now back behind bars.”