Serial crook who tried to kill cop with stolen Mercedes while kid was in back in Edinburgh jailed for 11 years

A SERIAL criminal who tried to kill a police officer with a stolen car has been jailed for 11 years.

Thomas Malone had jumped into the Mercedes Benz outside a burger shop in Edinburgh’s Gorgie Road – unaware the owner’s 16 year-old son was in the back watching videos on his phone.

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Thomas Malone was jailed for trying to kill a police officer with a stolen car Credit: Thomas Brown

He smashed up the stolen Mercedes during his crazed driving Credit: Thomas Brown

Malone’s then crazed driving on July 9 2024 saw him “fish-tailing” out of control, also go into the path of a bus and as well as hit another car leaving the Mercedes badly damaged.

The 29 year-old – who allowed the distressed teenager to get out – was then spotted parked in a Shell petrol station in the capital’s Stenhouse Road by police alerted to the chaos.

PC Adam Brealey positioned his vehicle to stop Malone getting away and tried to apprehend him.

But, prosecutor Nicola Gilchrist said this ended up almost costing the officer his life.

She explained: “PC Brealey grasped Malone’s hands. He struggled and failed to comply with instructions to stop the engine.

“The officer activated his emergency radio signal as Malone began reversing.

“PC Brealey has limited recollection thereafter and next recalls being on the ground.”

The court heard Malone moved the Mercedes forward and smacked into another vehicle near a petrol pump.

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Thomas Malone had jumped into the Mercedes Benz outside a burger shop in Edinburgh’s Gorgie Road Credit: Thomas Brown

‘Terrifying incident’ left cop seriously injured

After Malone was convicted, Detective Inspector Alan Sharp said: “This was a terrifying incident for the officer involved, who was left with serious injuries as a result of Malone’s actions, and our thoughts remain with those involved.

“The courage and determination shown by the officer and his colleagues, who were simply doing their job, led to the swift arrest of Malone and ensured that the threat he posed to officers and the community was quickly contained.

“I hope this conviction brings some comfort to the officer and his colleagues, as well as the boy involved, and sends a message that this type of violent behaviour against police officers and staff will not be tolerated.”

Superintendent Andrew Barclay, of Road Policing, added: “I want to express my thanks and gratitude to those involved for their bravery and professionalism when faced with such danger.

“Every officer has the fundamental right to come home from each shift unharmed. This type of incident shows the unpredictable and dangerous situations police officers can face, while doing their utmost to keep people safe.”

Miss Gilchrist: “PC Brealey remained leaning into the driver’s window during this manoeuvre.

“Malone then drove between two cars at adjacent fuel pumps striking a second vehicle.”

The officer also hit one of those vehicles and slumped to the ground.

The prosecutor: “Malone continued towards the exit, collided with a pole, attempted to unsuccessfully reverse and then exited the vehicle fleeing on foot.

“He was pursued by a member of the public and other officers before being apprehended nearby.”

PC Brealey ended up in hospital due to his ordeal.

He was off work for 12 months and only returned to restricted duties.

As of December 2025, the officer continued to have reduced movement in his right shoulder after being hurt in the incident.

Malone was today sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow.

The criminal, of the capital’s Slateford area, had earlier pled guilty to charges of attempted murder, dangerous driving and abduction.

It emerged today that he already had more than 30 previous convictions including for offences against the police.

Marco Guarino, defending, told the hearing: “It is quite clear, in the cold light of day, that he has found it very difficult to come to terms that he caused a police officer to be badly hurt.

“For the grace of God, it was not worse.”

As well as the jail-term, Lord Renucci also ordered Malone to be supervised for a further three years on his release.

He described the crimes as “shocking and reprehensible”.

The judge: “Members of the public and police officers, who risk their lives, deserve to be protected by the behaviour exhibited by you.”

Malone was also banned from driving for a total of 13 years and six months.