Man jailed for ramming stolen car into police officer in north London
David Doyle, 19, reversed into PC Richard Keel multiple times
A man who rammed a stolen car into a police officer following a high speed chase in north London has been jailed.
David Doyle, 19 , of Northolt was sentenced to five and a half years’ imprisonment at Harrow Crown Court.
He'd previously pleaded guilty at the same court on 1 August. He was also disqualified from driving for 81 months.
Police pursuit
At around 18:20hrs on Friday, 17 May, PC Richard Keel was on a marked motorcycle in Camden Street when he spotted Doyle driving a stolen car at dangerous speeds.
PC Keel started a pursuit, only for Doyle to reverse towards him multiple times at high speed, striking him hard on the third attempt and knocking him off his bike.
Doyle then sped off leaving PC Keel with significant injuries. Members of the public were thankfully on hand to help the officer before alerting the London Ambulance Service.
Officers launched an investigation the same day, locating the stolen vehicle one mile away from where the attack occurred. Officers then trawled through CCTV footage and forensic evidence before identifying Doyle as the main suspect.
He was arrested on Thursday, 23 May before being charged the following day with driving offences and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
The Met Police have released footage of one point of impact:
PC Keel, who is based on the Central North Command Unit, said: “Although I’m on a challenging journey to recovery, I’m pleased that Doyle has been brought to justice for the attack. This incident is a reminder of the dangers we face as we strive to keep communities and Londoners safe.
“I would like to thank the members of the public that helped me that day and my colleagues who have been extremely supportive during this difficult time.”
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “Every day 18 of our officers are assaulted in the line of duty protecting the public. Two are seriously injured each week. I am constantly humbled by the selfless and brave commitment of the men and women of the Met who put their lives on the line to keep Londoners safe. That’s exactly what PC Keel did and I am pleased we were able to bring his attacker swiftly to justice.
“I had the opportunity to thank PC Keel for his service and wish him a speedy recovery. I'd also like to thank those members of the public and London Ambulance Service paramedics for the help they provided following the incident.”