Strangled PC left unconscious after attack by men

The attack happened in North Station Road, Colchester

Two men have admitted their roles in an attack that left a police officer unconscious after being strangled.

Sam Minter, 39, and Taylor Oliver, 18, set upon the constable in North Station Road, Colchester, on 17 February.

The officer was strangled by Oliver while he was trying to arrest Minter, who threatened to kill him, Essex Police said.

The men, both from Colchester, admitted intentional strangulation and will be sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on 27 November.

Minter, of Margaret Road, also pleaded guilty to affray and making threats to kill.

The officer was treated at hospital and made a full recovery.

Det Con Patrick Flude added: "This case shows the potential dangers officers put themselves in every time they respond to a call for help."

The officer- who police have not named - attended the scene after reports of a fight, later identifying Minter and attempting to arrest him.

He was then attacked by Oliver, of Romford Close, and strangled to the point he fell unconscious.

Oliver, who was 17 at the time, was arrested but Minter managed to flee.

He was chased and caught by a special constable, who attempted to detain him, but assaulted and strangled them.

Minter and Oliver admitted their offending at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday.

"Our officer was responding to this incident as he would any other and was assaulted in the line of duty," Det Flude said.

"We are thankful he was not left with any lasting injuries."