15 Humberside Police Officers assaulted every week – we must #ProtectTheProtectors

23 August 2023

Humberside Police Federation has once again called for stronger deterrents against those who assault police as statistics show an average of 15 officers are being assaulted every week.

A total of 808 officers were attacked in the year up to March, new figures published by the Home Office have shown.

Lee Sims, Chair of Humberside Police Federation, said: “That is 808 too many. No police officer deserves to go to work and get assaulted. Officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect the public and should not expect to go home with injuries.

“Police officers, like everyone else, have families. They are mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, husbands and wives. Can you imagine going home and explaining to a loved one that you’ve been assaulted whilst doing your job, or calling them from hospital telling them you’re going to be late home due to injury?

“Colleagues are being spat at, kicked, punched, attacked with weapons and, driven at by vehicles.

“This happens every day.”

Judges and magistrates must use the sentencing powers they have to their full extent to ensure that those who assault police officers and emergency workers are brought to justice and to prevent further attacks, Lee warned.

Lee added: “I believe doing this will send a clear message that it is not ok to officers and staff. Until we do, these attacks will keep taking place.”

Paul Anderson, Chief Constable, added: “Nationally, violence towards police officers is becoming more frequent, and Humberside is no exception. Our officers and staff remain dedicated to protecting members of the public, often placing themselves in dangerous situations and putting their own safety at risk to achieve this.”