Man faces jail for injuring policeman

A MAN has been warned he faces jail after pleading guilty to seriously injuring a police officer he hit with a car in Harrogate.

Llewllyn Mitcham, 30, of Leeds, appeared before York Crown Court yesterday when he pleaded guilty to three offences, including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and driving a motor vehicle without third party insurance.

York Crown Court heard how

North Yorkshire Police officer Thomas Lister was seriously injured when he was hit by a green Vauxhall Insignia vehicle, which was driven by Mitcham at the time, on Bewerley Road in Harrogate at about 3.20pm on Tuesday, March 16.

The officer was approaching the vehicle when it collided with him. He subsequently underwent surgery for a fractured knee cap, and is still undergoing treatment for his injuries.

Mitcham’s case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report to be drawn up, while statements from the officer will also be collected.

Addressing Mitcham, the Recorder of York, Judge Sean Morris, said: “These are extremely serious matters. I can not see anything other than a custodial sentence following it. You better get your affairs in order. You have done the right thing today in pleading guilty.”

Mitcham, who was granted conditional bail, will be sentenced at York Crown Court on May 17.

North Yorkshire Police Federation has previously called for tougher sentences for those who attack officers on duty.

Chairman Rob Bowles said: “Officers come to work to protect the vulnerable and safeguard our communities and should be allowed to carry out this role without the fear of being assaulted or abused.”