Man jailed for breaking police officer’s jaw during traffic stop in Three Rivers
Officer suffered serious injuries during unprovoked assault
Tyler McQuarrie, 26, from Baxter Road, Watford, has been sentenced to more than four years in prison after a violent and unprovoked attack during a routine traffic stop left a police officer with a broken jaw.
The attack took place on 21st October last year, during a stop on Hornhill Road Maple Cross, when the officer was carrying out proactive policing duties.
McQuarrie then punched the officer, leaving him injured on the roadside with fractures to his jaw, eye socket, and cheekbone. The officer discharged his Taser in an attempt to detain McQuarrie, who fled in his vehicle.
McQuarrie was arrested in Luton the following day.
The Police Constable stopped McQuarrie’s car in Hornhill Road, Maple Cross, as part of an operation targeting criminals on county roads.
McQuarrie pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm (GBH - Section 18) and multiple drug offenses at St Albans Crown Court on 16th April.
The sentence includes 23 months for the GBH charge and 29 months for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, both to be served consecutively.
A further six-month term for possession with intent to supply Class B drugs will run concurrently, with no separate penalty for possession of cannabis.
Investigator Sian Smith of Three Rivers Criminal Investigation Department said: “The defendant showed zero remorse for his actions and is clearly a violent individual who is a danger to the public. We are pleased that he pled guilty, meaning the officer did not have to endure a trial.
“However our thoughts remain with our colleague, who is still recovering from the incident."
Luke Mitchell, Chair of Hertfordshire Police Federation said: “Had the blow landed just millimetres differently, we could be speaking about a very different and far more tragic outcome today.
"Instead, we are talking about an officer whose life has been changed in every respect - physically, mentally, and professionally - as a result of one moment of senseless violence.
“Let me be clear, this is not something that ends today, when the court case concludes - it is something he will carry with him for the rest of his life."
Adding: “Finally, I want to recognise the professionalism and determination of the investigating team. The outcome of today’s sentencing reflects their hard work, persistence, and commitment to ensuring justice was achieved for our colleague.”