A violent attack on an on-duty police officer has today (Thursday 15 February) resulted in the offender being jailed after he admitted to the assault.
In August last year PC Jagruti Chhaganlal was on duty in Beaumanor Road, Leicester, when she was approached by James Nutting, a man she had previous dealings with after reports of him racially abusing and making homophobic remarks towards neighbours.
Nutting, 44, of Beaumanor Road, Leicester, launched a violent attack on PC Chhaganlal, punching and then kicking her multiple times as she lay on the floor before walking off. He was subsequently arrested nearby.
Chief Constable Rob Nixon, spoke after the conviction, he said: “This violent attack on one of our officers while on duty left me deeply troubled and reflective about the unacceptable nature of assaults on police officers.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the risks they face daily while working tirelessly to serve and protect the community.
“It is utterly unacceptable for those who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe to be subjected to abuse and violence in the line of duty.
“As a community, we should stand united against such heinous acts and ensure that any assault on an emergency worker is swiftly pursued.”
Nutting has previously pleaded guilty to Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm and at Leicester Crown Court today he was sentenced to three years and six months.
Chief Constable Nixon added: “I want to reassure all emergency workers that all reports are taken seriously, and we will not accept it as merely something that comes with the job. As this case demonstrates those responsible will be pursued and prosecuted.
“I would urge communities to support this as we need to create an environment where emergency workers feel safe and supported in order to carry out their duties for all our benefit.
“The dedication and bravery demonstrated by police officers and other emergency service workers should be appreciated and honoured, not met with violence. It’s essential that we together send out a strong signal that this type of behaviour is unacceptable.”
DC Kate Dabrowska was the investigating officer, she said: “The level of violence demonstrated by Nutting towards PC Chhaganlal was significant. He continued to attack her when she was lying on the ground, before simply walking off with no remorse for his actions.
“Luckily there were some people nearby who saw what happened and came to the officer’s aid before emergency services arrived.
“She was taken to hospital suffering from a laceration to her head, significant redness, swelling and bruising to her face and arms.
“PC Chhaganlal has since returned to work but on restricted duties. There is no doubt the impact of what happened will stay with her for some time, a scar under her eye is a daily reminder of what she was subjected to. Policing was a job she loved, and the incident has knocked her confidence and made her think twice about her career in the force. She has been supported by colleagues and we hope that the admission of guilt by Nutting will help her in her recovery and give her the confidence to return to normal duties.”
