Deal: Man Jailed For Machete Attack

Two Kent police officers have been commended for their bravery and professionalism after a Deal man was jailed for ten years for an attack with a machete.

Judge Adele Williams praised them after sending Michael Mankelow, aged 58, of Downs Road, Walmer, to prison at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday (7 October 2013). He was appearing for sentencing after being found guilty in August of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

The court had heard that Police Constable Matthew Bilney and Detective Constable Gemma Keeley visited Mankelow at his home address just after 10am on 4 February to make enquiries about a criminal allegation.

But when he answered the front door, an enraged Mankelow slammed it in their faces and refused to cooperate.

As the officers headed back to their unmarked patrol car, Mankelow returned brandishing a machete and made threats to them.

He then attacked the patrol car, with PC Bilney inside, smashing several windows and doors as he tried to reach the officer.

As PC Bilney attempted to start the vehicle, Mankelow smashed through the windscreen with the machete, the blade cutting into the steering wheel directly in front of the officer's face.

Detective Chief Inspector Emma Banks said: 'This was a terrifying experience for the officers and PC Bilney feared that he was going to lose his life.
'Both officers showed utmost professionalism at the time of this attack and throughout the investigation as they assisted the investigating officer in securing  Mankelow's conviction.

'All those involved welcome the sentence which reflects that officers going about their lawful duty must expect a level of protection when faced with members of the public who, in this case, placed officers at risk of very serious injury.'