A GROUP of six brutally attacked a police officer in Lundwood - leaving him with broken facial bones and damaged teeth.
The attack came as a result of the officer encountering and attempting to detain one young man engaging in antisocial behaviour in the group on Pontefract Road on Monday evening.
The incident occurred at around 8.45pm, and South Yorkshire Police are appealing for anyone with information who may help their ongoing investigation which has so far seen two charged and one arrested.
Toby Love, 20, of Park Avenue, was charged with grievous bodily harm and assisting an offender - he was remanded into custody and will next appear in Barnsley Magistrates’ Court on May 31.
Jack Love, 19, of Village Court, was charged with grievous bodily harm, two counts of assault on an emergency worker and assault with intent to resist arrest - he has been bailed with conditions, and is also set to appear in court on May 31.
A 14-year-old was also arrested under Section Five of the Public Order Act and on suspicion of assault on an emergency worker - the youth has been bailed with conditions while enquiries continue.
“As the officer attempted to detain one of the men, a violent struggle took place and he was attacked by six members of the group - suffering kicks and punches to the head and face,” a spokesperson for the force said.
“The officer was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition, receiving treatment for injuries including a broken nose, damage to his teeth and a suspected broken cheekbone.”
Detective Inspector Mark Cockayne, a senior investigating officer, said: "An investigation is under way and we are now seeking to identify further suspects in connection to this serious, violent attack,” he said.
"If you were in the area at the time and saw or heard anything suspicious, please get in touch and tell us what you know.”
Temporary Superintendent Paul Ferguson added: "This was a serious assault on an officer simply carrying out his neighbourhood duties.
“This is an awful crime committed upon an officer - a colleague with a family - who was working to keep the community he serves safe.
“As with all victims of a crime of this nature, he is being supported by our officers and the investigation is continuing at pace to trace those responsible.
"I am aware there is footage of the incident circulating on social media and I understand what has happened will cause concerns in the local community.
“We have increased patrols in the area and I'd encourage anyone who is worried - or anyone who wants to share something - to speak to one of our officers.
“They are there to reassure you and make you feel safe."
Anyone with information which could help the investigation is urged to call 101 quoting incident number 1001 of April 25.
Alternatively, you can stay completely anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers via their website Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.
