A man who slashed a Rotherham response officer, leaving him requiring hospital treatment, has been jailed
On 17 July, armed with a knife, Glynn Leedell violently charged at the response officer who, along with colleagues, was responding to reports of threatening behaviour at Kimberworth Park in Rotherham.
Multiple people had reported Leedell for his behaviour towards a woman after he was seen acting aggressively and making threats to assault her.
During the incident, Leedell attacked the officer, causing a slash wound to the back of the neck which required hospital treatment. The injured officer and his colleagues managed to restrain Leedell, remove the knife from his possession and arrest him. A second officer also suffered injuries to his hand.
The 46-year-old was charged with harassment, assault of an emergency worker and wounding with intent.
Appearing at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday 29 August, Leedell, of Binders Road, was jailed for four years and six months after previously pleading guilty to wounding with intent. The counts of harassment and assault of an emergency worker will remain on file.
Rotherham District Commander Chief Superintendent Andy Wright said: “Our officers put themselves at risk every day as they work to keep the public safe. This was a disgraceful act of violence which could have had devastating consequences.
“I am thankful that the officers concerned did not suffer more serious injuries from this vicious attack. I would like to commend both officer’s bravery during this incident.
Despite sustaining injuries, they courageously helped their colleagues restrain Leedell and remove the knife from the situation – ensuring no one else could be injured.
Leedell not only injured our officers but subjected an innocent woman to threats and abuse – making her feel unsafe in her own home as well as affecting others in the community.
His reckless act of violence has landed him a considerable prison sentence, serving as a reminder that we will not tolerate any aggression towards our officers.”
