Appeal for information after police officer injured in Belle Vale

Detectives are appealing for information after an officer was injured in Belle Vale on Wednesday, 30 October.

At around 6.35pm, officers responded to a report of youths causing damage to vehicles and letting off fireworks in Belle Vale Park.

Upon finding the group, a youth wearing all black with his face covered, fired rockets towards the officers, resulting in an officer being struck. The officer sustained a loss of hearing, a laceration to his ear and burns and cuts to his head. He was taken to hospital for assessment.

Detective Inspector Neil Dillon said: “This was a disgraceful incident in which one of our officers was injured, damage was caused to vehicles, and which could have so easily been even worse.

“If you saw the incident or have any information, please come forward as soon as possible, and we can ensure that those responsible for this criminal damage and injury are brought before the courts. You may have captured this group on CCTV, dashcam or other devices, and this may be vital evidence.”

You can contact us @MerPolCC or 101 with reference 24000922873, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Superintendent Dawn McNally is leading Merseyside Police’s operation over Halloween and Bonfire Night. She said: “We’re supporting the injured officer as this investigation continues. Our officers serve their communities with bravery and determination on a daily basis, but to face such reckless behaviour is completely unacceptable, and we will fully investigate all such incidents which endanger the public and our officers.

“Over Halloween and into Bonfire Night, we will be continuing a high visibility presence across the region in order to keep communities safe and respond to any incidents. Our officers are being encouraged to use their stop and search powers to full effect in order to actively prevent further acts of criminal damage and antisocial behaviour.

“We understand the distress that incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage cause so if you experience anything in the coming days please report it to us. I’d also remind people to always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can pass any information via our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook.”