Man Charged After Knife Attack on Officers in Harlow
A 23-year-old man has been charged with two counts of attempted murder following a knife attack on two Essex Police officers in Harlow.
Knife-Wielding Suspect Attacks Officers
Officers were called to Hull Grove just after 5.45pm on Friday, 29 December, over concerns for a man’s welfare.
Upon arrival, they encountered Declan Diedrick armed with a knife, making threats. During the confrontation, a female officer was wounded in the head.
She was rushed to hospital and thankfully discharged later that evening. Another female officer was also assaulted but did not require hospital treatment. Both officers continue to receive full support from their colleagues and senior police officials.
Arrest and Charges
Diedrick was arrested after backup arrived. He was taken to hospital for treatment before being questioned by Harlow CID.
He now faces two counts of attempted murder and one count of possession of a knife. Diedrick is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 1 January.
Police Vow Full Support
Chief Superintendent Stuart Hooper said: “Thankfully both officers continue to recover from what was a harrowing incident on Friday evening. Their welfare remains paramount and they will be given support from the force for as long as they feel they need it.”
“We’ve been authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service to charge Mr Diedrick and as such it would be inappropriate to comment any further.”
