Constable Karl McClean said he feared he would be 'kicked to death on the ground'
An officer standing trial on GBH charges “feared for his life” and was "punched, kicked, bitten and spat on" during an altercation at a home in Ardglass, a court heard today.
McClean told the court that he and three other officers had met in Ardglass prior to the bail check and decided two officers would go to the address while McClean and another officer stayed in the area in case backup was needed. McClean said that as he approached Mr Russell he moved a plant pot from the doorway fearing it "could be used as a weapon" and that after "smelling alcohol" on Mr Russell's breath made the decision to arrest him. He said that when he reached to place handcuffs on Mr Russell, he was punched twice to the face.
McClean said that during the altercation, Mr Russell opened a door in his house to a room containing two dogs and because Mr Russell had "threatened to set his dogs" on officers, he sprayed irritant spray on the dogs before closing the door. Constable Shannon Dunwoody and former Constable Andrew Fair, who is now on a career break, took to the stand in the afternoon of the second day of the hearing where they gave their testimony of what happened on January 27.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Man lost three teeth when punched by PSNI officer holding handcuffs, court toldPSNI officer on trial for alleged GBH incident said to have occurred during bail check
Read more »
Four PSNI Officers Face Trial for Kebab Shop BrawlFour PSNI officers are on trial for affray after a fight broke out at a Belfast kebab shop in 2022. The prosecution alleges the officers used excessive force against a member of the public who intervened in a heated conversation.
Read more »
Nurse assaulted and 'placed in headlock' at Belfast maternity hospitalPSNI appealing for member of public who tackled assailant to come forward
Read more »
Police Seek Witness in Off-Duty PSNI Officer Attempted MurderPolice in Northern Ireland are appealing for a man driving a red car who may have picked up a suspect in the attempted murder of an off-duty PSNI officer. The incident occurred in the Beverley Road area of Newtownabbey on Monday 6th January. A 29-year-old man has been charged with nine offences, including attempted murder, unlawful imprisonment, assault, and possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Read more »
PSNI appeal as child on bike hit by car in weekend crashIt happened on the afternoon of January 11
Read more »
PSNI Vows to Protect Elected Representatives After MP Reveals Rape ThreatsAlliance Party MP Sorcha Eastwood detailed her experiences with threats of sexual violence, prompting a commitment from the PSNI to ensure the safety of elected representatives.
Read more »