QSR1843/1/5/57

Depositions - John Bradshaw charged with assaulting a constable in the execution of his office

17 September 1842

From: 1842 To: 1843

Joseph Peters, police constable of Blunham - on Wednesday 14 September he was entrusted with a Justices' Warrant to apprehend John Bradshaw of Tempsford who had refused to obey a summons to answer a charge of poaching. About 10.30pm he was waiting outside Bradshaw's house to execute the warrant when he came home and entered the house. Henry Lucas the gamekeeper was at hand to assist if necessary as he "knew Bradshaw to be a desperate and violent character". Soon after Bradshaw came out of the house. He went up and laid his hand on his shoulder and told him he had a warrant to apprehend him. Bradshaw asked to be allowed to go indoors and have his supper. He agreed on condition he went in with him. As soon as they got to the door Bradshaw swore that he should not enter his house. As he went in Bradshaw assaulted him in a very violent and dangerous manner. Bradshaw kicked him and struck him on the head several times, his wife assisting him. They were down together until Henry Lucas came in and he charged Lucas to aid and assist him, which he did and they secured the prisoner. Henry Lucas of Tempsford, gamekeeper - he was in the Wheatsheaf Inn, Tempsford waiting to assist police constable Peters if required. About 10.30pm Mr Taylor the landlord told him he was asked for. He went to John Bradshaw's house and saw Peters and the prisoner on the ground outside the door, struggling together. Peters deposition is quite correct as far as he is concerned.

item

Bradshaw, John,
Peters, Joseph,
Lucas, Henry,
Taylor

TEMPSFORD, BLUNHAM, assault, police constable, gamekeeper, poaching, Tempsford Wheatsheaf