Cop’s Leg Snapped in Brutal Christmas Eve Attack
Paul Luke, 38, from Waterville Road, North Shields, launched a savage assault on PC Paul Gillespie on Christmas Eve 2020. Officers had been called to a domestic incident when Luke made a scene at the North Shields address.
Violent Struggle at the Police Van
Luke threw threats at the cops before he struck. While being ushered into a police van, he used his full body weight to kick PC Gillespie backwards, snapping his leg. The officer collapsed in agony as Luke kept up his tirade, also attacking a second officer nearby.
Serious Injuries and Long Recovery
- PC Gillespie was rushed to hospital with a leg broken in two spots.
- He needed metal rods inserted and faced months of painful treatment.
- The officer was off work for seven months and still suffers lasting damage.
- The second officer sustained minor injuries.
Justice Served – Suspended Prison Sentence
Luke was charged within 24 hours with assaulting an emergency worker and grievous bodily harm with intent to resist arrest. He initially denied the charges but pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court on February 23.
He received a 14-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, handed down at Newcastle’s Moot Hall.
