Edinburgh man who ran over police officer with stolen car in 'terrifying incident' pleads guilty to attempted murder
Thomas Malone stole the car on Gorgie Road before hitting a police officer with the stolen vehicle at a petrol station on Stenhouse Road.
A man who stole a car with a teenage passenger inside has been convicted of the attempted murder of a police officer after having run him over.
Thomas Malone, 29, from Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to several charges including attempted murder, dangerous driving and abduction charges at the High Court in Edinburgh on Tuesday, April 14.
The incident saw Malone steal a Mercedes GLE from Gorgie Road on the evening of Tuesday, July 9.
A 16-year-old boy was a passenger in the car at the time of the theft but escaped from the vehicle with no injuries before Malone crashed the car into the police officer.
Malone drove the car into the officer, who was pursuing him on foot in an attempt to bring the car to a stop.
The crash took place at a petrol station on Stenhouse Road.
The officer in question was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh after sustaining serious injuries. However, they were described as “not life-threatening”.
Detective Inspector Alan Sharp said: “This was a terrifying incident for the officer involved, who was left with serious injuries as a result of Malone’s actions, and our thoughts remain with those involved.
“The courage and determination shown by the officer and his colleagues, who were simply doing their job, led to the swift arrest of Malone and ensured that the threat he posed to officers and the community was quickly contained.
“I hope this conviction brings some comfort to the officer and his colleagues, as well as the boy involved, and sends a message that this type of violent behaviour against police officers and staff will not be tolerated.”
Superintendent Andrew Barclay, of Road Policing, said: “I want to express my thanks and gratitude to those involved for their bravery and professionalism when faced with such danger.
“Every officer has the fundamental right to come home from each shift unharmed. This type of incident shows the unpredictable and dangerous situations police officers can face, while doing their utmost to keep people safe.”