A man who carried out a vicious knife attack on three Cleveland Police officers in Stockton has been jailed for 11 years and eight months.

Mark Fox, 35, of Mill Lane, Billingham, was found guilty of two counts of wounding with intent following a trial and pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

Officers attended an address on Corfe Crescent, Billingham, on Friday 2nd June 2023 following reports of concern for the welfare of a man.

While attending the incident, officers encountered Fox who was armed with a knife and became aggressive towards officers. Fox then attacked them with the knife.(Image: Cleveland Police)

Two Cleveland Police officers received puncture wounds while a third officer received slash wounds. All three were taken to hospital where they received stitches.

The officers involved were nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards 2024 and attended the awards ceremony on Thursday, July 11, where they were named regional winners for their bravery and courage.

Fox appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Monday (July 15) where he was handed his 11-year and eight-month sentence.

District Commander for Stockton, Superintendent John Wrintmore, said: “Police put their lives at risk every day by protecting members of the public and attacks such as this one are both shocking and truly disgraceful.

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“No one should come to work and be attacked whilst doing their job. Our officers were responding to concerns for someone’s welfare and attended the scene to help those in need of assistance.

“This was a terrifying incident for our officers who have been fully supported throughout this horrific ordeal. Fox’s actions on this day were extremely dangerous and reckless and this level of violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

“Today’s sentence sends out a strong message - our officers deserve the full support of the criminal justice system and I hope this dissuades anyone from using violence towards emergency workers simply doing their job.”