Manhunt as police officer attacked in Bilston

A manhunt has been launched for a dog owner who allegedly dragged an off-duty police officer from his car and attacked him with a metal lead.

Detectives want to speak to Leon Richards in connetion with an attack in Broad Lanes, Bilston, in which a West Midlands officer on his way to work was pulled from his car after hitting a dog.

Police said today they were hunting 23-year-old Richards in connection with the attack on the un-named uniformed officer.

The 27-year-old officer hit the dog with his car while making his way through a set of roadworks.

The dog was unhurt but Richards turned on the constable, it is alleged.

West Midlands Police spokesman Lee Page said: "In an unprovoked and sustained attack, the officer was dragged from his car and repeatedly punched and kicked in the head and body.

"He was also struck across the face with a chain link dog lead."

Richards' last-known address is in Bilston but he has not been seen since the attack, which happened on November 28 at 6.25am.

He knows he is wanted by the police, according to the force.

Police chiefs have now issued an image of Richards as part of the attempt to trace him.

Detectives say they urgently want to speak to him, or anyone who knows of his whereabouts.

Anyone with information as asked to telephone the police on 0345 113 500.

Alternatively, anyone with information can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.