PC faces action after tacckling youth

**Lo523** · 05-16-06, 01:37 PM

PC faces action after tackling youth

A police officer is facing disciplinary action after tackling a masked youth who had been allegedly terrorising staff a school outside Preston.
PC John Ashurst was called to Lostock Hall Community High School and Arts College after reports that a gang armed with a knife had threatened to "cut up" the headteacher.

Two of the group of six, all believed to be from the Kingsfold area of Penwortham, were wearing 'Jason' masks from the Friday 13th movie.

It is believed they are the same gang which have been threatening pupils at the school for the last three months.

Police have launched an inquiry after an arrested youth cut his head - requiring three stitches - during the arrest. The complaint was made after the teenager received the injury when he banged his head during the arrest.

PC Ashurst, aged 41, detained the gang member after a chase along a disused railway line near Todd Lane North.

School governor Carol Chisholm, who has been on the school's board for the last eight years, pledged her support for PC Ashurst.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said: "We can confirm that officers were called to Lostock Hall High School on Thursday to deal with an incident.

"The constabulary's professional standards department is currently investigating an allegation against an officer."

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested for affray and has been released on police bail until June 16.

http://www.lep.co.uk/ViewArticle2.as...icleID=1503165