Man convicted of stabbing police officer in Harlow
Declan Diedrick left one officer with an injury to her face which required urgent hospital treatment
Last updated 31st Oct 2025
A man who tried to assault multiple police officers with a knife has been convicted at court.
Declan Diedrick left one officer with an injury to her face which required urgent hospital treatment in an attack in Harlow on 29 December 2023.
Police received calls with concerns for the safety of Diedrick, 25, in Hull Grove on the evening of the incident, before the first two officers at the scene were made aware he was also in possession of the seven-inch serrated kitchen knife.
When they tried to get him to put it down, an altercation with the officers began and Diedrick stabbed one of them before being handcuffed on the floor.
A member of the public also helped officers restrain Diedrick, who he did not attempt to stab.
Diedrick previously admitted wounding without intent and possession of bladed article in a public place, however prosecution proceeded with trial where he denied further charges against him – he was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent by a jury at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday (30 October).
Following the conviction Detective Superintendent Dan Morrissey said: “The determination and violence Diedrick showed that night was truly horrifying.
“One of the officers attacked described the Diedrick’s actions as like something from a Scream film – that is not something any officer should have to expect when responding to a call for help. He specifically targeted officers, not the members of the public also trying to stop him.
“Despite everything the officers attending went through they remain in frontline policing duties to continue helping the people of Harlow.
“The officers that responded that night are examples of the incredible bravery of all our officers trying to do the best for the people they serve, putting others first and putting themselves in harm’s way.”
In a statement the injured officer gave in court, she described her approach to supporting calls for people who may be in crisis: “During my experience as a police officer I have faced lots of jobs with concerns for someone’s safety.
“Each one is different but encompasses the same need for an individual facing a crisis. We respond according to the needs of the individual, often those actively trying to hurt themselves or expressing desires of suicide.
“I when responding to this call I did what I do at every mental health call; I wanted to help and offer support and safeguarding to the individual in crisis.”
Chair of Essex Police Federation, Steve Martin, said: “Despite the severity of the assault our officers demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism, successfully restraining the individual and preventing further harm. Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and public service and I am immensely proud of them.
“Having viewed the footage of the incident which shows the terrifying nature of the attack, it is difficult to comprehend the fear and danger the officers faced. Diedrick continued his attack even after a brave member of the public intervened - an act of heroism that prevented an even more tragic outcome, for which I thank him.
“These first responding officers are a credit to Essex Police. Their bravery and resilience in the face of such violence deserves recognition. I extend my deepest admiration and support to them as they continue their recovery and return to duty.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face daily. It is my hope that the judicial system delivers a custodial sentence that reflects the seriousness of this attack and sends a clear message: assaults on police officers will not be tolerated.”