Man filmed attacking police officer with sword and cutting off his finger
Anthony Browne, 63, pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and has been jailed for seven years and four months.
A policeman was left with a partially-severed finger after being subjected to a terrifying attack with a 4ft-long sword.
Bodycam footage revealed the moment Anthony Browne, 63, pulled out the blade hidden behind his back and lunged at the officer.
Browne pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and has been jailed for seven years and four months.
Police were called to Lodge Avenue in Dagenham, east London, around 7.40pm on November 30 last year to reports of a disturbance and a man behaving aggressively.
They were confronted by Browne, who slashed an officer during attempts to detain him, breaking his hand and partially severely one of his fingers.
The policeman, who has not been identified, needed surgery after the incident and continues to be treated for his injury.
Browne, of Lodge Avenue, was taken to an east London police station and remanded in custody.
He was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court yesterday.
Detective Chief Superintendent Stephen Clayman, in charge of policing in East Area, said after the case concluded: ‘Anyone watching the body worn video footage will agree that it is completely unacceptable that officers are met with extreme violence like this.
‘The officer’s colleagues were certainly quickly on scene when the alarm was raised.
‘The fact his injuries were not life threatening was fortunate, particularly for Browne, who could have found himself facing even more serious charges.
‘I’m quite sure that this will have a lasting impact on the officer concerned who showed great courage in the face of danger.
‘The dramatic escalation of violence and aggression shown by Browne highlights both the bravery and risks police officers often face, particularly in someone’s own home.
‘It also demonstrates that anyone who assaults an officer whilst carrying out their duty, no matter what the circumstances, will find themselves before the courts, so be warned.’
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