A 29-year-old man has been convicted of the attempted murder of a police officer in Edinburgh.
Thomas Malone pleaded to guilty to attempted murder, dangerous driving and abduction charges at the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday (Tuesday, 14 April).
The incident took place at a petrol station on Stenhouse Road on the evening of Tuesday, 9 July, 2024.
The officer was struck by Malone, who was driving a stolen Mercedes GLE, while on foot attempting to bring the vehicle to a stop. Malone had stolen the vehicle from the Gorgie Road area earlier in the evening.
A 16-year-old boy was a passenger within the vehicle at the time it was stolen but escaped prior to the crash with no injuries.
The officer was met with immediate assistance from colleagues and Malone was arrested.
He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment to serious, but not life-threatening, injuries.
Detective Inspector Alan Sharp said: “This was a terrifying incident for the officer involved, who was left with serious injuries as a result of Malone’s actions, and our thoughts remain with those involved.
“The courage and determination shown by the officer and his colleagues, who were simply doing their job, led to the swift arrest of Malone and ensured that the threat he posed to officers and the community was quickly contained.
“I hope this conviction brings some comfort to the officer and his colleagues, as well as the boy involved, and sends a message that this type of violent behaviour against police officers and staff will not be tolerated.”
Superintendent Andrew Barclay, of Road Policing, said: “I want to express my thanks and gratitude to those involved for their bravery and professionalism when faced with such danger.
“Every officer has the fundamental right to come home from each shift unharmed. This type of incident shows the unpredictable and dangerous situations police officers can face, while doing their utmost to keep people safe.”