Member of the public praised for helping detain suspect in violent arrest incident
A man has been jailed for 26 weeks after attacking two police officers in Brighton, with authorities praising the courageous actions of a bystander who intervened during the arrest.
Andrew Hipkiss, 40, of no fixed address, appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on April 11, where he pleaded guilty to three counts of resisting arrest and two charges of assaulting an emergency worker.
Officers attacked during routine response on London Road
Police were called to London Road at 9.08am on Thursday, April 10, following reports of an intoxicated man shouting abuse at pedestrians. Upon arrival, officers attempted to engage with Hipkiss, who became hostile and refused to provide his details.
As officers tried to detain him, Hipkiss fled the scene, prompting a foot chase through the city centre.
Bystander helps officers detain violent suspect
In a remarkable act of bravery, a member of the public waiting to cross the road saw the chase and tripped Hipkiss, allowing officers to regain control. However, during the ensuing struggle, Hipkiss punched, spat at, and bit the officers.
Both officers required hospital treatment for their injuries.
Custodial sentence and compensation order
Hipkiss was sentenced to 26 weeks in custody and ordered to pay £200 in compensation.
Superintendent Petra Lazar, of Brighton and Hove division, condemned the attack:
“The behaviour of Hipkiss was appalling, and it is completely unacceptable for officers to be attacked while carrying out their duties.
It should not simply be seen as ‘part of the job’. Our officers are here to protect the public and keep our communities safe.
We are pleased that Hipkiss will serve a significant custodial sentence for these incidents.”
Community praised for courageous action
Sussex Police praised the bystander’s quick-thinking intervention, calling it a moment of “community courage” that helped prevent further harm and enabled officers to bring the violent suspect into custody.
