Drug search officer's leg broken

A police officer had his leg broken when a car he was searching for drugs was driven off.

Sussex Police said Pc Andy Misrahi, a father-of-two, was searching a Ford Fiesta in Upper Shoreham Road in Shoreham at about 2045 BST on Monday.

They said the driver was co-operative at first but then drove away, striking Pc Misrahi on the leg, causing a multiple fracture to his knee.

A 20-year-old local man was arrested and remained in custody on Tuesday.

I am thankful that his injuries are not life threatening, although they were serious and he is undergoing an operation today Ch Insp Sharon Rowe

He has been questioned in connection with GBH with intent, dangerous driving, failing to stop for a police constable, obstructing a drugs search and failing to stop at the scene of an injury road accident.

Police said 41-year-old Pc Misrahi, who is married with a 15-year-old son and 14-year-old daughter, had stopped the car with a female colleague to search for drugs.

The officer, who has been with Sussex Police for nine years, is being treated in Worthing Hospital.

Ch Insp Sharon Rowe, district commander for Shoreham, said: "This officer was injured in the execution of his duties.

"I am thankful that his injuries are not life threatening, although they were serious and he is undergoing an operation today.

"I would like to appeal to any witnesses, or anyone who knows about this incident, to come forward and speak to police as soon as possible.

"This was a serious incident and we want to hear from as many people as possible."