WATCH | Motorcycle Cop Rammed and Seriously Injured in Cowardly Attack: Is 5 Years Enough?

Public Criticism Mounts Over Lenient Sentence for Deliberate Attack on Police Officer

David Doyle, 19, has been sentenced to five and a half years in prison after deliberately ramming a stolen car into a police officer during a high-speed chase in north London. The sentence, handed down at Harrow Crown Court on Thursday, 14 November, has sparked criticism, with many questioning its adequacy given the severity of the offence.

Deliberate Act of Violence Against a Vulnerable Officer

The shocking incident occurred on 17 May in Camden Street. PC Richard Keel, on patrol with the Central North Command Unit, spotted Doyle recklessly driving a stolen vehicle. A pursuit followed, during which Doyle reversed his car at speed towards PC Keel multiple times, striking him hard on the third attempt. The officer, on a motorcycle and inherently more vulnerable, was violently knocked off his bike.

Despite PC Keel’s injuries, Doyle fled the scene. Quick-thinking members of the public rushed to the officer’s aid and alerted emergency services. The London Ambulance Service treated and transported PC Keel to hospital, where he began what has been described as a “challenging journey” to recovery.

Public Anger Over Sentence Length

Doyle was arrested six days later and charged with grievous bodily harm with intent. Yet the sentence of five and a half years, combined with the reality that Doyle may serve less than half of this in custody, has drawn widespread criticism.

One social media user called the sentence “a joke,” writing:

“5.5 years for attempted murder???? He knowingly drove that car at a more vulnerable road user. Our ‘justice system’ has become a joke.”

Another commented: “Should be serving life for attempt murder. Reckless or deliberate acts that endanger life should be treated accordingly.”

A third individual remarked: “5.5 years, so much for the justice system looking after the police, ambulance, and front line services people.”

Doyle was sentenced to just 5.5 years in prison for the attack

A Vehicle Used as a Weapon

Many have described the act as nothing short of a deliberate and calculated attack. The speed and force at which Doyle reversed his vehicle, knowing PC Keel was on a motorbike, suggests a clear intention to use the car as a deadly weapon. The officer’s vulnerability on two wheels only underscores the brutality of Doyle’s actions.

Officer’s Recovery and Reflection

PC Keel, reflecting on the incident, expressed his determination to recover:

“Although I’m on a challenging journey to recovery, I’m pleased that Doyle has been brought to justice for the attack. This incident is a reminder of the dangers we face as we strive to keep communities and Londoners safe. I would like to thank the members of the public that helped me that day and my colleagues who have been extremely supportive during this difficult time.”

Commissioner’s Support for Officers

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley praised PC Keel’s bravery and highlighted the risks faced by officers:

“Every day, 18 of our officers are assaulted in the line of duty protecting the public. Two are seriously injured each week. I am constantly humbled by the selfless and brave commitment of the men and women of the Met who put their lives on the line to keep Londoners safe. That’s exactly what PC Keel did, and I am pleased we were able to bring his attacker swiftly to justice.”

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Justice System Under Scrutiny

The criticism of Doyle’s sentence reflects growing concerns about how the justice system handles violent crimes against emergency service workers. Many feel sentences must better reflect the gravity of such offences and act as a stronger deterrent.

As PC Keel continues his recovery, the case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced daily by frontline workers. It raises questions about whether the judicial response is sufficient to protect them.

Doyle’s sentence may have brought closure to one chapter, but the broader debate over justice and the protection of those who protect us remains unresolved.

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OPINION: The Disparity in Justice: Reflecting on Doyle's Sentence

The recent sentencing of David Doyle to five and a half years in prison for using a stolen car as a weapon against a police officer has ignited a firestorm of public debate, not just about the length of his sentence but about the very nature of what constitutes justice in our society. Here's a man who, in a moment of reckless abandon, chose to reverse at high speed into PC Richard Keel, an officer on a motorcycle, thereby committing an act that could very well have been lethal. The fact that PC Keel survived this attack owes more to fortune than to any lack of intent on Doyle's part.