Man jailed for vicious attack on three Cleveland Police officers

A man who carried out a vicious attack on three Cleveland Police officers in Stockton has been jailed for 11 years and eight months.

Mark Fox, 35, from Billingham, pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent and was found guilty of two counts of wounding with intent following a trial.

Officers attended an address on Corfe Crescent, Billingham, on Friday 2nd June 2023 following concerns for the welfare of a man.

While attending the incident, officers encountered Fox who was armed with a knife and became aggressive towards officers. Fox then attacked them with the knife.

Two Cleveland Police officers received puncture wounds while a third officer received slash wounds. All three were taken to hospital where they received stitches.

The officers involved were nominated for the national Police Bravery Awards 2024 and attended the awards ceremony on Thursday 11^th July where they were named regional winners for their bravery and courage. 

Fox appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Monday 15^th July where he was handed his 11 year and eight month sentence.

District Commander for Stockton, Superintendent John Wrintmore, said: “Police put their lives at risk every day by protecting members of the public and attacks such as this one are both shocking and truly disgraceful.

“No one should come to work and be attacked whilst doing their job. Our officers were responding to concerns for someone’s welfare and attended the scene to help those in need of assistance.

“This was a terrifying incident for our officers who have been fully supported throughout this horrific ordeal. Fox’s actions on this day were extremely dangerous and reckless and this level of violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

“Today’s sentence sends out a strong message - our officers deserve the full support of the criminal justice system and I hope this dissuades anyone from using violence towards emergency workers simply doing their job.”