A major police response was launched in Crawley on Saturday afternoon (May 31) after three police officers were injured during a violent arrest attempt.
Sussex Police were called to a property on Gossops Drive at approximately 2.30pm as part of an ongoing investigation. When officers attempted to arrest a suspect, the man resisted and violently assaulted three officers, inflicting significant injuries before fleeing into a nearby residence.
Road Closed and Emergency Response
Gossops Drive was temporarily cordoned off while emergency services secured the scene, leading to local traffic disruption. The road has since reopened.
A 43-year-old man from Crawley was later arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and remains in police custody.
All three injured officers were transported to hospital for treatment. Their injuries, while serious, are not believed to be life-threatening.
Police Condemn Violence Against Officers
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna, speaking after the incident, said:
“Violence towards emergency workers is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Police officers put themselves at risk to protect the public, but they should not expect to be assaulted in the course of their duties.
I would like to commend these three officers for their bravery.”
Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
Police are now urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has doorbell, CCTV or mobile phone footage to come forward.
Information can be submitted online via the Sussex Police website or by calling 101, quoting Operation Whitby.