South Yorkshire Police Federation calls for maximum sentence for man who attacked officer with machete

Muhammad Rodwan, aged 56, launched a frenzied attack on PC Stuart Outten during a routine traffic stop.

The police officer was struck over his head with a 2ft long blade after stopping Rodwan in his white van in east London last August.

Rodwan, who has previous convictions for rape and two other machete attacks, was pulled over for having no insurance.

He punched PC Outten before grabbing a sharpened machete as the officer tried to arrest him.

Despite bleeding heavily from six deep gashes to his head and arm, the Metropolitan Police officer managed to Taser Rodwan twice.

Rodwan, who claimed he acted in self defence, was cleared of attempted murder after an Old Bailey trial but found guilty of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm.

He could face life in prison when he is sentenced today.

Speaking after the verdict was returned yesterday, Steve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, said: “How on earth can attacking a police officer with a machete not be attempted murder?“I hope the sentencing powers which are still substantial are applied to the maximum. However, what kind of message does this send out?

“This brings back uncomfortable memories of one of South Yorkshire Police’s own in the not too distant past.”

He added: “Both nationally and at South Yorkshire Police Federation we are satisfied that officers can and should carry Taser to ensure they are properly protected.”

In April 2016, PC Lisa Bates, who worked in Sheffield, was attacked with a machete while on duty in Gleadless Valley.

Nathan Sumner struck PC Lisa Bates as she visited his home after being called by a concerned neighbour.

The officer suffered a partially-severed finger, a fractured skull and broken leg in the incident, in which she jumped down a staircase in an attempt to escape.

Sumner was acquitted of attempted murder but found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent and was jailed for 15 years.