A KNIFE-WIELDING vandal has been jailed for 18 months after terrorising his neighbours by damaging houses and cars and injuring the policeman who tried to arrest him.

Josh Abbott of Mendip Heights, Didcot pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage to a vehicle, one count of criminal damage to a house, one count of affray, one count of possession of a bladed article and two counts of obstructing a constable in execution of their duty.

Between 5.30am and 7am on May 25 last year, Abbott caused damage to a house on Mendip Heights before then causing damage to two vehicles on Station Road Didcot, whilst in possession of a knife.

He then obstructed the officers detaining him, causing injuries to them.

Investigating officer Det Con Francesca Griffin of Abingdon police station said: “This case caused a lot of concern for the community around Mendip Heights and Station Road earlier this year. It also resulted in injuries to two police officers as they tried to arrest Abbott. Fortunately both officers have made full recoveries and are back on duty.

“I am pleased for the community and for the officers that justice has been served.”

He appeared at Oxford Crown Court last Friday.