Chief inspector keen to catch suspect quickly after “disgraceful” assault on colleague

Jonathan Cawdron, 45, who is from the Norwich area, has been at large since the incident in Dereham on Wednesday morning.

Up to 10 police cars were out looking for Cawrdron after he attacked the officer before running off.

The search has been continuing today and has been focussed in the Dereham and Norwich areas.

Chief Insp Paul Wheatley said: 'This police officer was just doing his job, trying to protect the public and to be assaulted like this is absolutely disgraceful.

'No crime is right but for an officer to be simply responding to an incident, and then subjected to this level of assault, is just awful.

'I've spoken to the officer and fortunately he is okay and back at work, but I am keen to catch this man as quickly as possible.'

The drama burst into life at around 10.15am on Wednesday when police had a report of a man apparently drink-driving in a blue Volkswagen Polo on Norwich Road, Dereham.

The car was stopped and three men inside - who were known to police - tried to flee.

Two were arrested but Cawdron ran off after kicking an officer in the groin and head.

Chief Insp Wheatley said: 'We have contacted his family, are continuing with patrols in the Norwich and Dereham areas, studying CCTV footage and also appealing for anyone with information to come forward.'

He added: 'Although this was a violent assault we have no reason to believe this man is a particular threat to the public.'

Cawdron is described as being white, around 5ft 10 in height, of a medium build and was wearing a dark blue top, which had been ripped, jeans and has a cut to his face.

Anyone who may have seen Cawdron, or may know of his whereabouts, should contact Norfolk Police on 101 immediately or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.