Call For Tougher Sentences For COVID Assaults

The Police Federation of England and Wales has called for tougher prison sentences after the release of Crown Prosecution Service statistics revealed that assaults on emergency workers had become the most common coronavirus-related crime.

There were 1,688 offences charged in the first six months of the pandemic – between 1 April and 30 September last year.

Many of these involved police officers being coughed and spat on, with others kicked, bitten and hit with heavy objects, after stopping suspected rule-breakers.

Max Hill QC, Director of Public Prosecutions, added: “Our guiding principle throughout has always been to support the police in ensuring the right person in charged with the right offence.

“Particularly appalling is the high number of assaults on emergency workers still taking place and I will continue to do everything in my power to protect those who so selflessly keep us safe during this crisis.”

Date posted: February 1, 2021