Suspected Burglar Caught After Canterbury Community Centre Break-In and Officer Assault
A man has been arrested after Kent Police responded to a suspected burglary in progress at a community centre in Canterbury during the early hours of Thursday morning.
Officers were called to Tenterden Drive shortly after 5.22am on Thursday, 24 July, following the activation of an intruder alarm at the premises.
Upon arrival, police discovered a damaged door at the community centre and spotted a man nearby, believed to be linked to the incident.
When challenged by officers, the suspect assaulted one officer and fled on foot, triggering a dramatic chase through nearby woodland, fences and residential gardens.
After an extensive foot pursuit, officers located the man hiding in a bush, where he was detained without further incident.
A search led to the recovery of cash, coins, and bottles of alcohol, allegedly stolen during the break-in.
Arrest and Investigation
A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and assaulting an emergency worker. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.
Kent Police confirmed that the assaulted officer did not require hospital treatment and is recovering.
Police Statement
A Kent Police spokesperson said:
“This was swift action by officers responding to a live alarm. Their pursuit through challenging terrain led to a quick arrest and the recovery of stolen items. Violence against emergency workers will not be tolerated, and our enquiries remain ongoing.”
Appeal for Information
Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident is urged to contact Kent Police on 101, quoting reference 24-0225, or to report information online at www.kent.police.uk.
