Man accused of trying to murder police officer in Gateshead admits attacking him
by Rob Kennedy · ChronicleLiveA man has admitted causing serious injuries to a police officer.
Matthew Bello, 50, was originally accused of trying to murder the Northumbria Police officer but prosecutors have now accepted his guilty plea to the lesser charge of wounding with intent. He also admitted having a bladed article, dangerous driving, having no insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence. The charge of attempted murder will not be proceeded with.
The offences took place on August 8 this year. Shortly after 3.50pm that day, officers were alerted to a vehicle of interest in the in the Leam Lane area of Gateshead.
Police said that after stopping the car, the driver assaulted a male police officer with a weapon believed to be a blade, causing an injury to his arm. The driver fled the scene but was arrested in the Rodsley Avenue area of Gateshead.
Bello, of no fixed address, was further remanded in custody and will be sentenced on January 23. Judge Tim Gittins told him: "The court requires a pre-sentence report from the probation service. That will assist the court with your personal circumstances and your background.
"Obviously these are serious offences and the likelihood is an immediate custodial sentence. What I can promise you, while I can't tell you the length of that sentence, I can promise you will receive substantial credit for your early guilty plea."
After the case, Assistant Chief Constable Deborah Alderson, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a shocking attack on one of our dedicated officers and they showed incredible bravery in extremely challenging circumstances.
“I am pleased that the individual responsible has been brought to justice for their completely unacceptable actions. Thankfully, the officer is now back at work – once again protecting the wonderful communities we serve.”
She added: “Each and every day our officers, staff and volunteers come to work to make a positive difference to people’s lives. They know this may mean putting themselves in harm’s way to protect others – but we want to be clear violence against them will not be tolerated.
“We are extremely grateful for the support we do receive from the overwhelming majority of people we serve – please know this is never taken for granted and it really does mean a great deal.”
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