Swordsman Jailed For Police Attack

A swordsman, who lunged at a police officer with the four-foot blade at his east London home, has been jailed.

Anthony Browne, 63, of Lodge Avenue, Dagenham received seven years and four months imprisonment when he appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

He pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on the officer on November 30, last year when police were called to deal with his aggressive behaviour.

At 7.40pm police entered the unkempt address and Browne immediately seize the sword that was hidden behind him and lunged forward.

As officers attempted to detain him, one officer was injured. 

The sword connected with the officer’s hand, breaking it and partially severing a finger.

The officer was taken to an east London hospital for treatment to his his non life-threatening injury, but required surgery and ongoing treatment.

Detective Chief Superintendent Stephen Clayman, in charge of policing in East Area, said: “Anyone watching the body worn video footage will agree that it is completely unacceptable that officers are met with extreme violence like this. 

“The officer's colleagues were certainly quickly on scene when the alarm was raised. 

“The fact his injuries were not life threatening was fortunate, particularly for Browne, who could have found himself facing even more serious charges.

"I’m quite sure that this will have a lasting impact on the officer concerned who showed great courage in the face of danger.

“The dramatic escalation of violence and aggression shown by Browne highlights both the bravery and risks police officers often face, particularly in someone’s own home.

"It also demonstrates that anyone who assaults an officer whilst carrying out their duty, no matter what the circumstances, will find themselves before the courts, so be warned.”