Knife Attacker Jailed for Six Years After Police Assault in Newton Aycliffe
A violent knife attack on a police officer has landed David Eldrett behind bars for six years. The shocking incident unfolded in Newton Aycliffe in the early hours of January 28, after police were called to a property amid reports of a man assaulting a woman with a large hunting knife.
Armed Standoff Ends in Violence
Eldrett, 54, from Kestrel Court, refused to follow armed officers’ orders to exit the home. Instead, he brandished the knife at the front door before barricading himself inside — locking the door, drawing curtains, and plunging the house into darkness in a bid to evade arrest.
With a tense situation escalating, officers forced entry. Eldrett lunged and stabbed one officer in the leg. The injured officer quickly withdrew to receive critical medical treatment, his wound bleeding heavily.
Swift Arrest and Serious Charges
Police wasted no time arresting Eldrett at the scene. He faced multiple charges including threats to kill, wounding with intent, and assault. Durham Crown Court handed down his six-year prison sentence today.
Officer Recovers and Returns to Duty
The injured officer took time off to recuperate but was back on restricted duties within three weeks. He has now resumed his full role with the force.
Superintendent Andrea Arthur, head of Durham’s Roads and Armed Policing Unit, slammed the attack: “Sustaining a serious injury whilst protecting the public is not ‘part of the job’ of a police officer. We absolutely will not tolerate assaults on our officers, and we will take robust action against those like Eldrett.”
