Officer resigns after near-fatal glass attack in Essex
PC Bright resigns post-attack, assailant handed indefinite hospital order
A police officer who narrowly escaped death after a severe glass attack has resigned, while his assailant received an indefinite hospital order. Ahmed Poka, 23, attacked PC Matthew Bright with a glass shard, slashing his face and neck. Police were searching for Poka, who had fled a mental hospital in Harlow, Essex, as part of a missing persons hunt. PC Bright located Poka and approached him.
Poka responded violently, cutting the officer’s jaw and neck, missing a major artery by just 1cm. PC Bright needed 22 stitches and sustained permanent scars. The incident occurred on 7 September 2022. The officer has since left Essex Police and is no longer in law enforcement.
Poka, charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon, was found unfit to stand trial. On 3 June this year, a trial of facts confirmed Poka, of Boxted Road, Colchester, committed both acts at Goodman House, Harlow.
Poka left the officer scarred for life after narrowly missing a major artery https://t.co/QrJNk8t6l4
— Essex Live (@essexlive) September 17, 2024
In a hearing on 11 September, Poka, diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order. His release depends on the agreement of expert clinicians and the Home Secretary that he no longer poses a public risk. A court heard Poka exhibits symptoms akin to PTSD and is “unpredictable and aggressive.”
Mr Bright has struggled with sleep since the attack. He stated this month, “I think about it every day. It’s had a massive impact on my family and colleagues who were there that day.”
Judge Christopher Morgan emphasised the necessity of the order to protect the public, noting the uncertainty of how long Poka might remain a severe threat. Addressing the victim, Judge Morgan expressed gratitude to officers like PC Bright and his colleagues who risk their safety for others.
Detective Constable Alfred Self, involved in the case, remarked, “This has been a challenging investigation and court process. I hope this resolution ensures Poka poses no further danger to the public and serving officers. Police officers dedicate themselves to public safety, often facing unexpected and spontaneous danger.
“In this instance, officers were responding to a missing persons enquiry, aiming to ensure Poka’s welfare. Instead, within moments of shocking violence, the officer feared for his life. “This incident has profoundly impacted the injured officer and his colleagues. I hope the case’s conclusion and our thorough investigation provide some closure for them.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- EssexLive News reports on an Essex Police officer who narrowly survived a brutal glass attack by Ahmed Poka, leading to Poka’s indefinite hospital order and the officer’s subsequent resignation from the force. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to PC Matthew Bright?
PC Matthew Bright was brutally attacked with a glass shard, resulting in severe injuries and 22 stitches.
Who attacked PC Matthew Bright?
PC Matthew Bright was attacked by Ahmed Poka, a 23-year-old who had absconded from a mental hospital.
What was the outcome for Ahmed Poka?
Ahmed Poka was given an indefinite hospital order and can only be released if deemed no longer a public risk.
Why did PC Matthew Bright leave the police force?
PC Matthew Bright left the force due to the traumatic impact and life-changing effects of the attack.
What mental condition does Ahmed Poka have?
Ahmed Poka suffers from schizoaffective disorder with symptoms similar to PTSD.
