PC Paul Fisher, an armed officer with the Metropolitan Police, is currently facing trial for dangerous driving while responding to the Streatham terrorist attack in February 2020. The incident involved a collision with a Toyota Prius while PC Fisher was driving at high speeds to reach the scene of the attack.
Incident Details:
- High-Speed Crash: Fisher was driving an unmarked BMW X5 when he crashed into the rear of a Toyota Prius. The collision occurred as he was responding to the stabbings by terrorist Sudesh Amman in Streatham, South London.
- Driving Manner: The court heard allegations that Fisher drove too fast to maintain control, ventured onto the wrong side of the road, and overtook another motorist unsafely.
Context of the Response:
- Surveillance Operation: PC Fisher was part of a surveillance operation monitoring Amman, who had been released from prison ten days prior.
- Emergency Response: Upon hearing radio transmissions about the attack, Fisher, along with another armed response vehicle, raced to the scene.
Charges and Defense:
- Denial of Dangerous Driving: Fisher denies the charge of dangerous driving, which encompasses the potential for causing injury or serious property damage.
- Legal Position: The prosecution emphasized that being a police officer responding to an emergency does not exempt one from the law against dangerous driving.
Court Proceedings:
- Speed Details: The court was informed that Fisher was driving at speeds of up to 80mph, slowing to 46mph at the time of the crash.
- Prosecutor’s Statement: Prosecutor Ben Lloyd stated that while police officers have certain exemptions in speed limits during emergencies, this does not permit unsafe driving.
- Health Incident: PC Fisher reportedly became ill in the dock and was transported to the hospital.
Background of the Terrorist Attack:
- Sudesh Amman’s Attack: Amman, who had a history of terrorist offences, began stabbing people on Streatham High Road, leading to the police response.
- Public Safety Concerns: Amman’s actions had raised significant concerns about the risks he posed to the public following his release from prison.
Implications: This trial highlights the complexities faced by police officers in emergency situations and the balance between rapid response and public safety on the roads. The case against PC Fisher sheds light on the strict legal frameworks governing police conduct, even in high-pressure scenarios like terrorist attacks. The outcome of this trial will likely have implications for police training and protocols in emergency responses.
