A man who tried to run over a police officer in County Durham will be sentenced later this month.

Jason Howe drove at the officer who was pursuing another suspect in Barnes Road, Murton, last Friday (October 28).

After the shocking incident, which left the officer severely shaken, Howe sped off, but further enquiries revealed his vehicle was in the Billingham area and officers were able to recover it and locate Howe.

He was arrested and subsequently charged with dangerous driving and assaulting an emergency worker.

The 51-year-old pleaded guilty to both charges when he appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on October 31.

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Following the incident, detective sergeant Victoria Ford, from Peterlee CID, has condemned the violence shown against the officer in the incident and every other emergency worker.

She said: “Luckily, the officer did not sustain any serious injuries in what could have been a catastrophic incident had he not jumped out the way.

“Officers should never have to go to work and worry about being assaulted on duty, or worse, not returning home, when they are protecting the public.

“The officer in this case has been fully supported by his colleagues, however, I have no doubt that this incident will have a lasting impact on him.”

Howe, 51, from Murton, is next expected to appear at Durham Crown Court on November 28 for sentencing.

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