Man jailed after driving at police officer

Barry Rossiter, 24, was sentenced to ten years in prison, with a further two years on licence

A man has been jailed for driving at and seriously injuring a police officer in Ashford, Kent, before speeding off.

Barry Rossiter, 24, was speeding and requested to stop by an officer carrying out speed checks in Coulter Road on 26 January, Kent Police said.

But instead of slowing down and stopping, police said, the car accelerated and was driven at the officer, who was thrown onto the bonnet and then onto the ground.

Rossiter was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Friday to 10 years in prison, with a further two years on licence.

The officer involved in the incident suffered serious injuries and is still recovering, Kent Police said.

The car drove off at high speed and veered on the wrong side of a nearby road, causing a crash in which another vehicle was damaged.

Police later traced the car, which had been set on fire, to Hornash Lane, near the village of Shadoxhurst and after an investigation, found Rossiter was behind the wheel.

Police said he evaded officers for several days but he was tracked down to Hawkhurst and arrested on 31 January - five days after the incident.

Police said Rossiter only had a provisional driving licence.

He later admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

'Bravery and professionalism'

Police said while in custody, Rossiter attempted to bite a detective who was accompanying him to a court hearing and was further charged with assault on an emergency worker.

Ashford District Commander Ch Insp Sarah Rivett said: "I am always impressed by the bravery and professionalism officers show when faced with people like Rossiter.

"I, along with everyone in Kent Police, am very happy he is recovering and working towards a full return when possible."