Man Charged Over PC Attack

Detectives have charged a 17-year-old boy with actual bodily harm after a police officer was assaulted in Southampton as he chased a youth.

The youth had run off from a colleague who was about to conduct a stop and search in Fritham Road, Harefield Southampton at around 3.45pm on Tuesday, January 8.

The 33-year-old Bitterne based PC was assaulted as he gave chase resulting in him falling to the ground and receiving face and knee injuries.

The officer was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he had to have 10 stitches to a deep cut on his forehead. He also suffered cuts and bruises and ligament damage to his knee.

The 17-year-old has been bailed to appear before Southampton Youth Court on Thursday, January 31.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses.

Anyone who did witness the incident or knows anything about what happened is asked to call Bitterne CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The officer is recovering from his injuries at home.