Man jailed for six years after Lowestoft officers injured

He pleaded guilty

Author: Sharon PlummerPublished 30th Jun 2021

A man has been jailed for six years after an incident where two police officers were seriously injured in Lowestoft.

50-year-old Mark Bedwell of Tonning Street in the town was jailed for six years after appearing at Ipswich Crown Court on Monday 28th June where he pleaded guilty to two offences of unlawfully and maliciously throwing a corrosive fluid, with intent to burn, maim, disfigure or cause grievous bodily harm.

Mark Bedwell

It follows an incident on at about 4.45am on Thursday 5 December 2019 where police attended his address on Tonning Street. This was part of a pre-planned joint operation with Metropolitan police to arrest Bedwell in connection with other offences and to extradite him to America.

Bedwell sprayed a noxious liquid at two police officers, now known to be drain cleaner, using a children's 'super-soaker' gun. After the incident Bedwell then fled the scene.

Both male officers sustained serious injuries sustaining burning and blistering to their face, neck, head and hands. Both officers were taken to James Paget Hospital by ambulance for treatment. One officer was discharged from hospital later the same day while the other officer required an overnight stay before being discharged. Both offices required subsequent treatment to their injuries at Broomfield hospital burns unit.

Bedwell was arrested a short time later the same morning at James Paget hospital after another police officer established he was there for treatment to an injured ankle.

He was taken to Great Yarmouth Police Investigation Centre for questioning and subsequently charged with two counts of grievous bodily harm.

Detective Inspector Matt Adams of Lowestoft CID said:

"This sentence handed out by the courts reflects the severity and seriousness of the incident. Both officers who were injured have outlined how it has had a significantly detrimental effect on them. The physical pain and discomfort both experienced afterwards has alleviated but the mental trauma remains for both.

"Any assault or attack on a police officer is deplorable. It is completely unacceptable to assault a person who is simply going out to do their job and do their best to serve the community and to work with and protect the public. This six-year sentence is a clear reminder to anyone who thinks they can attack officers without consequence is wrong. We will take action against those people to secure a prosecution and bring the perpetrators to justice."

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