Officer and Police Dog Brave Brutal Drunken Assault
A Thames Valley Police officer battered by a drunk driver and his passenger has bagged a prestigious Bravery Award. PC Jason Brinklow suffered whiplash and a seriously bruised back during the violent attack — and his police dog, Cass, is being honoured alongside him.
Violent Attack After Drunk Driver Refuses to Stop
Back in September 2018, PC Brinklow and Cass responded to reports of a fight at a Banbury social club. One suspect fled in a car, believed to be under the influence.
PC Brinklow, working alone, found the vehicle and signalled for it to stop. The driver ignored the blue lights but eventually pulled up outside his home.
As Brinklow approached, the driver and his passenger launched a sudden, brutal attack. The passenger tried to block Brinklow from dealing with others in the car, then kicked the officer hard in the back. In the struggle, the attackers grabbed Brinklow’s radio and handcuffs — leaving him vulnerable.
Fierce Struggle Despite Limited Backup
PC Brinklow deployed Cass, but the young dog was still in training and couldn’t stop the attackers. Yet Brinklow fought back, fending off blows and regaining partial control.
Without his handcuffs, he couldn’t make arrests until backup arrived. “It’s very rare to face that level of aggression from two people at once,” Brinklow said. “Usually, drunk drivers either surrender or run — but these two fought hard.”
Rewards for Courage and Tenacity
The passenger pleaded guilty to assault but was discharged; the driver got community service and a fine.
“It was a violent, cowardly attack on one of our officers by two extremely aggressive men,” said Thames Valley Police Federation Chair Craig O’Leary. “Despite everything, Jason and Cass stopped them escaping and kept them at bay until backup came. Jason is a credit to our force and a worthy bravery award winner.”
PC Brinklow will collect his award at the Thames Valley Police Federation ceremony on September 9, where the top bravery honours will be handed out.
