Man Jailed For Attempted Murder Of PC

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A Bournemouth man who attacked a police officer has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted of attempted murder.

43-year-old Michael Edward was found guilty of stabbing PC Craig Bartlett on Surrey Road in Bournemouth at around 7.55pm on Monday 21st February 2011.

As a result of the attack – which took place while police conducted an arrest during an operational investigation – PC Bartlett sustained a 12cm knife wound above the hip and a 10cm knife wound to the left shoulder. His injuries were described as serious and potentially fatal.

PC Bartlett was treated at hospital for a number of days – he has now returned to duty.

Edward, from Surrey Road, was sentenced on the 31st of January 2012 at Bournemouth Crown Court after being foiund guilty at his trial in December.

Detective Sergeant Wayne Seymour, of Bournemouth CID, said:

"PC Bartlett sustained very serious injuries as a result of the vicious attack by Michael Edward.

"Thankfully he is now back at work, but the consequences could have been far, far worse.

"During the trial, the court heard that Edward used a 16cm kitchen knife to stab Craig twice and there was clear evidence, by way of damage to Craig’s coat, that at least one further attempt to stab PC Bartlett was made.

"Clearly, Edward’s actions were entirely reprehensible and we welcome the sentence that was handed down by the judge today..

"This case highlights the dangers of knives and I would like to make it clear that Dorset Police will use the full force of the law to deal with anyone who keeps such items about their person.”

Clive Chamberlain, Dorset Police Federation Chairman, added:

"There is no doubt that Craig was extremely fortunate to have survived from this horrific attack.

"Michael Edward was a criminal armed with a large knife – a weapon that he used in an attempt to kill a police officer who was carrying out his duty to protect his community.

"This incident demonstrates what an inherently dangerous job police officers undertake each day and I hope that this sentence sends a clear message to anyone who may ever consider carrying a knife.

"I am pleased to say that Craig has made a full recovery and has resumed his valued work in Bournemouth – although we should not underestimate the effect that this incident has had on him, his loved ones and colleagues.

"Police officers are an integral part of every community and I am heartened by the support that Craig and his colleagues have received from members of the public. I am sure that Dorset residents will welcome today’s sentencing.”

Edward had also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply – the matter for which he was being investigated at the time of PC Bartlett’s stabbing.