A POLICE officer feared being blinded after petrol was poured over him, a court heard.

Justin Jackson, 28, of Ward Close, Basildon, has been charged with seven counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent after allegedly pouring the petrol.

He appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court yesterday but no pleas were entered.

A 17-year-old boy also appeared at court charged with dangerous driving, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, driving without insurance, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of handling stolen goods.

Again no pleas were entered.

It is alleged a motorbike was driven dangerously around Canvey before a police chase, from land and air to a Basildon estate.

It is further alleged a stand off ensued and petrol was poured over police officers who were also allegedly threatened with a hammer.

Sam Doyle, prosecuting, read out statements from police officers during the short hearing.

One said: “I was assisting my colleagues when out of no where I was dowsed in liquid.

“I felt it down my left side and it started to get warm and smelt like fuel.

“I felt my arm burn and almost immediately lost my vision.

“I couldn’t cope and at some point fell to my knees.

“I panicked and feared I would not live a normal life without my sight.”

Jackson was remanded into custody ahead of a plea hearing.

A 17-year-old boy was remanded into youth detention.

Following the incident Janine Justin, 47, of Ward Close, Basildon, was charged with possession of an offensive weapon and is due to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on May 30.

A 17-year-old girl from Corringham was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, a 20-year-old woman from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a police officer and a 30-year-old man from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.

They have all been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Chief Constable BJ Harrington said: “We continue to work with the support of local communities in Essex to keep them safe and appreciate and value this.

“I will absolutely not tolerate any violent behaviour against my officers doing their jobs to protect the communities we serve.

“Thankfully these brave officers have suffered no lasting effects as a result of the incident.”

Police continue to investigate the alleged incidents. Anyone with information is asked to call Basildon CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.