Man strangled police officer during arrest - court

Police were called to First Avenue after residents reported a disturbance

A police officer was strangled and almost lost his life while trying to arrest a man, a court heard on Monday.

Acting Sgt Alan Proud was called to First Avenue on Canvey Island, Essex, on 4 November 2023 at about 04:00 GMT following reports of a disturbance.

Sgt Proud was strangled while trying to arrest a man and later attended hospital.

David Coe, of First Avenue in Canvey Island, is on trial accused of attempted murder and non-fatal strangulation. He has pleaded not guilty to both counts.

'Get off me'

Prosecutor Matthew Bagnall said Sgt Proud could have died if other officers did not intervene in time.

The jury was shown bodycam footage of the moments leading to the arrest.

The footage showed Mr Coe confirming his name before Sgt Proud tried to arrest him. Sgt Proud was heard saying "get off me now" and footage showed the pair shouting at each other.

Mr Bagnall said Mr Coe managed to get on top of the Sgt Proud's chest and strangle him on the floor.

Sgt Proud hit his head in the altercation and became unconscious due to being strangled, said Mr Bagnall.

Mr Bagnall told the court that once Mr Coe had been arrested he said: "Is he dead, did that copper die?"

"I'm sorry to that copper."

The trial continues.