Man jailed for 11 years for wounding police officers

A close up police shot of Mark Fox Image source, Cleveland Police
Image caption,

Mark Fox pleaded guilty to wounding three police officers but denied intent

  • Published

A man has been jailed for wounding three police officers who were trying to disarm him.

Teesside Crown Court heard that Mark Fox was a "dangerous man who had formed a clear intent to be violent" when the officers were called to a house over concerns for his safety.

At an earlier hearing, the 35-year-old of Mill Lane, Billingham, County Durham, pleaded guilty to wounding three officers but denied intent.

He was jailed for 11 years and the judge, Recorder Aisha Wadoodi commended the officers for their bravery.

'Out of control'

The court heard that police were called to a house on Corfe Crescent, Billingham, on 2 June, 2023 by a family member who was concerned for the defendant's safety.

Two police officers were attacked while trying to recover a knife, while a third was slashed on his forearm, the hearing heard.

The prosecution also alleged the defendant grabbed two of his relatives and held a knife to their faces.

The three officers needed hospital treatment but did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

The court heard that more police officers arrived at the house and Fox was eventually arrested.

Sentencing Fox, the judge, said he was "completely out of control" and the behaviour of the police officers was "entirely professional and appropriate".

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