Kent Police Federation calls for stronger deterrents for those who assault police officers

31 July 2020

Government stats show a total of 1,145 officers were assaulted in Kent over 2019/20 compared to 1,234 in 2018/19.

Of the assaults occurring this year 94 Kent officers were left with an injury of some sort. Nationally more than 30,000 officers were attacked, an increase of 3% on 2018/19.

Kent Police Federation said the slight reduction in numbers was to be welcomed but that there was more to do in deterring would be assailants in the first place.

Chairman Neil Mennie said; "Any reduction in assaults on our colleagues is very welcome, but it's clear that there is still a long way to go.

"The reasons for the continuing unacceptable numbers are many and varied. It has been suggested that this may be societal but we must influence and support change where we can.

"We also need the valued opinions and influence of the public, the Government and judiciary."

Home Secretary Priti Patel has said she is well aware of the growing need to
tackle violence against blue light workers and has vowed to double the
maximum sentences available to two years.

Any legislation would follow the 2018 Protect the Protectors Bill which saw the sentencing power of the courts go from six months to a year in prison.

"The potential increase in sentencing is an important step," Neil said.

"This needs to translate into consistent and appropriate outcomes for those who harm our members.

"In Kent, the Chief Constable is supportive of driving down the figures and has widened the available safety equipment including spit guards and Taser.

"All Kent officers assaulted are contacted by the Federation and a force response plan implemented. At court the Chief Constable provides a written statement detailing the impact on the force and officers."

More equipment and more officers could also help tackle the number of assaults happening on the frontline.

"It's vital that officers have the confidence to use their training and equipment without being concerned about ramifications or scrutiny when protecting themselves and the public," Neil added.

"With more equipment and a gradual restoration of officer numbers lost during the cuts, our hope is that the trend will continue to fall.

"Quite simply we need to get to a position where if you assault an officer or other emergency service worker you will face significant consequence."

For the full report visit;
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/a
ttachment_data/file/904523/police-officers-assaulted-201920-england-wales.pd
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