PCSO Brutally Attacked by Wanted Man Hiding in Nottingham Bin Store
Police were called to Clifton Leisure Centre in Nottingham after Mark Diuk, 34, was found sleeping rough in a bin store at the back of the centre. Staff were alarmed after discovering used needles left on the floor, blocking bin collection.
Violent Assault on Officer Trying to Wake Up Diuk
A Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) arrived shortly after 9.30am on Saturday 21 August 2021 to check on Diuk. When the officer tried to wake him, Diuk pushed past and tried to flee, forcing the PCSO to grab his rucksack strap.
That’s when Diuk turned savage, punching the officer in the face and clawing at his neck. Both fell to the ground as the attacker scratched and punched repeatedly. Diuk even shoved his fingers into the PCSO’s mouth and eyes.
The officer finally pressed his emergency button to call for backup. But Diuk bolted towards Clifton Central Park and vanished despite a huge search involving dogs, drones, and armed units.
Wanted Man Nabbed After Manhunt
Diuk, who was wanted on recall to prison, was caught the next day on Victoria Embankment just after midday. The PCSO suffered serious injuries including a head wound needing hospital glue, deep facial cuts and grazes, plus damage to his gums, lips, hands, and fingers.
Diuk Sentenced to Jail and Ordered to Pay Compensation
Today (23 August 2021) at Nottinghamshire Magistrates Court, Diuk was sentenced to six months behind bars. He must also pay the injured officer £100 in compensation.
Sergeant Nigel Bradley, Nottinghamshire Police: “Assaults on frontline emergency workers are totally unacceptable. This sentence sends a clear message that violence against police officers and PCSOs will not be tolerated.”
“This was a vicious attack on a brave officer protecting the public. We are committed to supporting him fully.”
“All key workers have the right to do their jobs without fear of assault. We will not stand for this behaviour.”