A father and son have been jailed after a police officer was dragged along a road when they allegedly sped away in a car during an attempted police intervention over a suspected drug deal.
Douglas Mills, 58, and his son Douglas Mills Jnr, 32, were involved in the incident in which PC Mark Smith was left terrified as he was carried along by the moving vehicle.
The case has highlighted the serious dangers faced by police officers when attempting to stop suspected criminal activity.
Officer approached over suspected drug deal
According to reports, PC Mark Smith approached the pair after becoming concerned about a suspected drug deal.
The situation escalated when the men reportedly drove away in an Audi while the officer was caught up with the vehicle.
The officer was dragged along the road as the car sped away, leaving him fearing for his safety.
Father and son sentenced
The incident resulted in criminal proceedings against both men, with Mills and Mills Jnr ultimately receiving prison sentences.
The case demonstrates the potentially devastating consequences of attempting to evade police intervention, particularly when an officer is positioned close to a moving vehicle.
For police officers, approaching suspected criminal activity can involve significant risks, with situations capable of escalating within seconds.
Serious reminder about police safety
The incident has also underlined the dangers officers face while carrying out routine duties.
A confrontation that begins with an attempt to investigate suspected drug activity can quickly become a life-threatening situation when a vehicle is used to escape.
The imprisonment of the father and son reflects the seriousness of the incident and the danger posed to PC Smith.
The case serves as a stark reminder that attempting to flee from police can place officers, suspects and members of the public in serious danger.