Thug jailed for attack on cop which left him fearing he would die

A man has been jailed for a vicious attack which left a police officer unconscious and believing he was going to die.

Alan Keeble, 40, of Oakbrook Close, Bromley appeared at Croydon Crown Court yesterday having previously pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.

He was jailed for seven years and was placed on extended licence for a further three years after the judge deemed it necessary to protect the public.

He was also sentenced to three months, to run concurrently, for assaulting an emergency worker in relation to a second officer.

On February 10, police were called to a domestic incident at Keeble’s address in Oakbrook Close, Bromley. He was arrested for making threats to kill.

Following his arrest, Keeble became aggressive, clenched his right fist and punched one officer in the face, causing him to fall backwards on to a table.

He continued to punch the officer in the face, back and head, while other officers at the scene tried to pull him away.

In the struggle, Keeble also punched a second officer in the head, causing bruising.

The badly injured officer, who lost consciousness during the attack, was taken out of the property with a swollen face and bleeding nose. He was given first aid by the London Ambulance Service at the scene.

He was so traumatised by his injuries that he thought he was going to die. He even activated his BWV to record a message to his wife and baby to say goodbye.

He was taken to the Princess Royal University Hospital for treatment. A CT scan showed multiple fractures to his face, including his eye and cheek, which required the insertion of four plates.

Detective Sergeant Danielle Power, of South Area CID, based at Bromley police station, said: “Police officers never know what they will face when they attend an incident during their shift.

“These officers have shown incredible bravery serving on the front line. The impact of always running into danger and helping the public cannot be underestimated.

“In this case, Keeble lashed out and viciously attacked the officers for just doing their job. The quick actions of colleagues stopped the situation from becoming much worse.

“What this officer has had to go through is abhorrent. He has been left with a permanent reminder of the attack with metal plates in his face.

“This sentencing shows that we do not tolerate any abuse of our officers and offenders will be dealt with.

“Violence has consequences and I am glad Keeble has rightfully been held to account for his actions.”