Eastbourne police officers injured in violent struggle

According to Sussex Police, the constables, both men, had been flagged down by the Meads store staff while assisting with another incident on Monday evening (February 20).

The suspect was told he would be taken into custody. At this point he became violent and, as the officers tried to restrain him, one sustained a hand injury which later required hospital treatment and his colleague was badly bruised.

Following a call for assistance and the intervention of the officers’ sergeant, the suspect was eventually handcuffed.

Chief Inspector Emma Brice, Eastbourne district police commander, said, “I am not happy that two of my officers were assaulted detaining a suspect. It is not acceptable.”

Both officers, members of Eastbourne’s neighbourhood policing team, are currently off-duty.

A 31-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of theft, resisting arrest and wounding with intent.

After questioning, he was released on bail until April 15 pending further enquiries.