Man Jailed for Striking Police Officer with Car
A man who struck a police officer with a car, causing the officer to be propelled approximately 15 feet (4.5 meters) across the road, has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison.
Martin McGroary, aged 27, hit Inspector Jonathan Edgar on Herries Avenue in Dumfries on 28 July of the previous year.
McGroary had previously entered guilty pleas to charges of culpable and reckless conduct causing severe injury, as well as admitting to driving without insurance and failing to report the incident.
At the High Court in Glasgow, Lord Cubie stated that the severity of the case necessitated a custodial sentence.
"This case could only be dealt with by a custodial sentence,"
The judge characterized the event as a "momentary action and a single act" during which McGroary attempted to flee while "driving away at speed."
"You hit him despite his efforts to escape which caused him to be thrown across the carriageway,"
"The consequences could have been much worse but he did suffer severe injury and the possibility he has to give up his career."
Lord Cubie acknowledged that McGroary had accepted responsibility for his actions and recognized that he had made a "bad decision."
"I recognise the tragic loss of your brother and family fall-out affected your thoughts and impulsiveness,"
"You say that you feel horrible and horrendous and the victim was just doing his job."
In addition to the prison sentence, McGroary received a driving ban lasting seven years.
Incident Details
The court was informed that Inspector Edgar had responded to the location due to concerns related to McGroary, whose brother had recently died in a road accident.
Upon arrival, the inspector parked the police car near a police van before McGroary drove slowly between the two vehicles.
Officers initially believed McGroary was about to exit his vehicle when the door opened; however, after one officer drew a baton, McGroary closed the door again.
Subsequently, McGroary drove away "at excessive speed" toward the vehicles, prompting Inspector Edgar to run toward the pavement in an attempt to avoid being struck.
Despite these efforts, Edgar was hit and thrown into the air, traveling approximately 10 feet (3 meters) to 15 feet (4.5 meters) before landing on the road.
He was transported to the hospital with a dislocated shoulder, injuries to his head and face, and multiple bruises.
Defense Statement
John Scullion KC, representing McGroary, addressed the court during sentencing:
"The incident which gave rise to the charge occurred at a difficult time in (McGroary's) life.
It seems clear that he accepts full responsibility for his actions and displays remorse for his behaviour and the injuries to Insp Edgar which appears to be genuine.
It is fair to say that he bitterly regrets his actions."
