The National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) has condemned the rise in assaults on emergency workers.

Latest statistics from the National Police Chiefs’ Council revealed there was a 10 per cent increase in attacks against emergency service workers in November in comparison to the previous year.

John Apter said: “I am disgusted to see this appalling increase as COVID-19 continues to spread. These figures will include many police officers being spat at and coughed at by vile individuals who weaponise the virus, which threatens their health and that of their families.

“It is disgustingly offensive that 999 workers, who are working so hard to protect the public throughout this crisis, are being attacked and assaulted in this way. People need to remember that these emergency workers are mums and dads, and sons and daughters who have families to go home to at the end of a shift.

“Those who commit these despicable offences must be harshly dealt with by the courts and face the full force of the law.

“PFEW will continue our campaign to increase sentences against those who assault us through our ‘Protect The Protectors’ campaign. It is vital to ensure courts issue tougher sentences to those who assault emergency service workers. If you assault a police officer you should expect to spend time in prison, no ifs, no buts.”

Other findings:
• Serious violent crime, including Grievous Bodily Harm, Actual Bodily Harm and personal robbery reduced by 20 per cent
• Shoplifting was down 32 per cent
• Vehicle crime fell by 22 per cent
• Residential burglary was down by 23 per cent
• In total, 32,329 FPNs have been recorded as having been issued in England and Wales under Coronavirus Regulations between Friday 27 March and Monday 21 December