Police Officer Testifies in Assault Trial, Claims Driver Was Escalating Situation

Pc Charlie Thompson, a 31-year-old Essex Police officer, took the stand in his own trial, claiming that he feared for his safety after a traffic stop on January 19. Thompson testified that when he arrived at the scene, his colleagues appeared "shell-shocked" and he believed the driver, Zeki Badruddin, was about to stand up and potentially assault him or push him into the road.

Key Takeaways:

• Pc Charlie Thompson claimed that he was on his own when he drove back to the scene of the traffic stop, as his colleagues did not respond to a message on the radio.
• Thompson believed that Zeki Badruddin was a threat, stating that "He's an absolute mountain of a man. He's going to assault me. He's going to push me in the road. He's going to headbutt me."
• Thompson testified that he placed his hand on Mr. Badruddin's shoulder "just to gain some element of control" and felt the tension in his body, leading him to believe that Mr. Badruddin was about to get up.
• Thompson said he managed to get Mr. Badruddin to the ground using his arm and body weight, and later placed his knee on Mr. Badruddin's head for "no more than two seconds."
• The incident was flagged, and Thompson was placed on restricted duties and referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
• Thompson denies one count of assault by beating.

Statistics:

• Thompson has received a commendation for saving a man's life in 2021.
• Mr. Badruddin chipped a tooth during the alleged assault.
• The incident occurred on January 19, and the trial continues.

Sources:

• "PC Charlie Thompson tells court he 'felt tiered' as he stepped in to help colleagues detain a motorist - and claims he feared for his safety." The Sun.
• "Police officer denies assaulting motorist who 'flared up' during arrest". ITV News.
• "Essex Police Officer Charged With Assault After Traffic Stop". Essex Live.