Doubling assault sentence would be ‘step in right direction’

9 January 2020

DOUBLING the maximum sentence for offenders who attack police officers is a “step in the right direction”, Essex Police Federation has said.

The move, announced by the Government last month, came after lobbying from both the local and national Police Federation under the #ProtectTheProtectors banner.

A review is to be launched into the way the criminal justice system deals with assaults on emergency workers, with a view to doubling maximum sentences. The change to the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018 could lead to an introduction of a 24-month maximum sentence.

Steve Taylor, Essex Police Federation Chairman, said: “We suggested a doubling of some of those sentences to see it applied across the board for all types of assault, and particularly those committed against police officers.

“I think it helps with the deterrent element of the Protect The Protectors campaign, which is important. It is part of a wider piece of work that needs to be done on everything to help the protectors lobby. But I welcome it as a step in the right direction.”

Too many assaults are taking place, despite the recent changes in law, however.

Steve added: “There’s an element for whom the deterrent doesn’t work anyway, and that’s just the fact. So, perhaps for that portion of the police community it won’t make any difference. Well, deterrents do still work for the rest of us, and increasing the size of the deterrent, I can’t think that that will do any harm at all.”

However, complaints have been made that courts are still not handing down adequate sentencing, with offenders walking free with fines or suspended sentences after attacking police officers.

John Apter, Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “We need a concerted effort to make sure those who choose to attack police officers are dealt with appropriately by the courts, and officers need to be fully supported to report every incident where they are attacked.”