CONVICTED (2022) | Reece Armstrong, born 4 February 1996, of no fixed abode but originally from Guildford, with links to Stanwell, Camberley and Folkestone – lunged at a police dog with a zombie knife.
Career criminal Reece Armstrong told a police officer “I’m going to kill your dog” when they responded to an incident in Folkestone.
After swinging the blade and catching PD Blue’s collar, Armstrong fled but was located by firearms patrols in the town centre five days later.
He again tried to flee but was caught with the help of a police drone and detained.
Armstrong’s “utterly abhorrent behaviour” began on the afternoon of March 23, 2022, when police responded to reports of an altercation between two men in Endrook Valley.
An officer attended the area with PD Blue and approached Armstrong at around 4.20pm.
After initially interacting well, his mood changed and he brandished a large zombie knife from his hoodie.
He became very aggressive and moved towards the officer and Blue, threatening to kill the animal.
Fearing for his safety and for Blue’s, the officer shouted at Armstrong to stop and step back. He ignored the commands and swung the knife at Blue, with the blade catching his collar.
Armstrong then fled the scene. Fortunately, Blue was not harmed.
He was arrested days later following the use of a police drone to follow his movements across town.
Following his arrest officers located the zombie knife he had used in his attack on Blue.
After being interviewed in custody and charged in relation to the offences committed, Armstrong was immediately recalled to prison for breaching the terms of his licence in relation to a separate conviction.
He was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on 7 July 2022.
Investigating officer PC Sophia Lateu said: “Armstrong’s behaviour was utterly abhorrent; PD Blue and his handler were extremely lucky to be able to walk away from this incident unharmed.
“Every day our officers are required to attend unpredictable, challenging and sometimes volatile situations. However, like any other job, officers should be able to perform their roles without being the subject of such disgusting and potentially dangerous actions.
“Any assaults on police officers, staff or our police dogs are completely unacceptable, and we will not hesitate to prosecute those who put their safety and the safety of other emergency workers at risk in this way.”
Sentencing | two-year custodial.