(Image: West Yorkshire Police)
A Bradford man who rammed a police car with two officers still inside has been jailed.
Karam Tofeek, 24, of Leaventhorpe Lane, Bradford, was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on Tuesday after being found guilty of dangerous driving.
He was jailed for one year and nine months, banned from driving for three years and seven months, and ordered to pay a £187 fine.
What happened?
The court heard that Tofeek was driving a grey BMW X5 on Leeds Road in Bradley, Huddersfield, on July 23 when officers stopped him after suspecting the vehicle was uninsured.
After initially pulling over, Tofeek refused repeated requests to switch off the engine.
He then drove into a police car parked in front of him, causing more than £6,000 worth of damage while two officers were still inside the vehicle.
Officers intervened and detained him at the scene.
Neither officer was injured.
Following a trial at Leeds Crown Court, Tofeek was found guilty of dangerous driving on September 16 before returning to court this week for sentencing.
Officers put in 'extremely dangerous situation'
Sergeant Andrew Johnson said the incident showed the dangers officers can face while carrying out their duties.
He said: “Two officers were put in an extremely dangerous situation when the defendant rammed their police vehicle.
“Thankfully, neither was seriously injured, but this incident highlights the very real risks our officers face every day.
“Our officers continue to show bravery and professionalism when dealing with dangerous and unpredictable situations while protecting the communities they serve.
“We welcome the sentence, which reflects the seriousness of this reckless behaviour and hope it sends a clear message that putting officers and other road users at risk will not be tolerated.”
He added that roads policing officers remain committed to tackling criminality on West Yorkshire's roads and keeping communities safe.