Police officer seriously injured after assault in Wigan
The incident took place at a home address on Ridyard Street at about 4pm yesterday (Wednesday 3rd September).
A police officer from the Neighbourhood Tasking Team was attempting to arrest a wanted person who had failed to appear at court to answer for theft charges.
While attempting the arrest, the officer suffered a serious eye injury and bite injuries, and the person then fled the scene. They were found and arrested a short time later by 'backup' police officers.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a 25-year-old male is currently in police custody, after being arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.
The injured officer received medical attention at hospital and will now receive support from the Greater Manchester Police welfare team, according to Superintendent Danny O'Neil. The Superintendent also noted "there was a considerable amount of violence used and this serves as another stark reminder of the daily risks our officers face in their duty to protect the public".
No charges have been announced in relation to the incident. Any person charged and convicted of assaulting an emergency worker can face up to 2 years in prison. It is an "either way offence", meaning in more serious cases it may be heard by the Crown Court instead of the Magistrates' Court.
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