Female Police Officer Hit by Drunk Driver Praised for Bravery

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PC Sue Thomson "a credit to the Metropolitan Police Service"

PC Sue Thomson, who was injured when a drunk driver drove at her while she was attempting to stop him escaping on Shepherd's Bush Road has been praised for her bravery.

Chief Superintendent Gideon Springer, Borough commander of Hammersmith and Fulham, said: "PC Thomson is a credit to not only Hammersmith and Fulham police but the Metropolitan Police Service and this is a typical example of the courage and professionalism demonstrated by our officers in London on a daily basis."

Cllr Sue Fennimore, Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, said: " The actions of PC Thomson is an example of the bravery and selflessness exhibited by the borough’s officers on a daily basis.

"This driver’s reckless behaviour nearly killed someone. And thanks to the fast actions of some courageous officers he has been dealt with by the courts."

22 year-old Hackney man, Michael Oluwafemi Adenibi, was sentenced on May 8 to two years in jail for actual bodily harm, or ABH and drink driving after he drove a vehicle at PC Thomson.

Adenibi was previously found guilty of ABH by jury at Isleworth Crown Court on 19 March. He had earlier pleaded guilty to dangerous driving.

Adenibi was also driving without a valid licence and without vehicle insurance.

You can read more about the case and see a shocking video of the incident here.

PC Thompson said: "I will never forget what happened that afternoon and I know how lucky I was not to be more seriously injured, but the emotional consequences have surprised me with their depth and longevity.

" On a positive note I will always remember the love and support of my family, friends and colleagues both on the day and the months since. They have all been amazing and I am hugely proud to have them on my side."

The Borough Commander added: " Officers do not deserve to be injured during the course of their duty. This incident highlights the dangers that officers face as they go about their day-to-day work.

"We must ensure that all officers are afforded protection from this kind of assault, by the courts giving appropriately long sentences to those who have no regard for the safety of the men and women who regularly put their lives at risk in order to protect the people that live and work in London."

May 11, 2015