Man Jailed for Threatening to Infect Cops with COVID-19
A 41-year-old man has been sentenced to 19 weeks behind bars after threatening to spit on police officers and infect them with COVID-19.
Confrontation Turns Ugly in Brixton
Michael Gray, of Ingatestone Road, SE25, faced Croydon Magistrates’ Court on 3 April after pleading guilty to assaulting emergency workers and using threatening behaviour. The drama unfolded at 1.55am on 2 April 2020, on Upper Tulse Hill, Brixton.
- Police spotted Gray harassing three women.
- He was wanted on a warrant for failing to appear in court over drug-driving charges.
- When officers arrested him, Gray became confrontational and deliberately coughed at them.
- While in custody, he threatened to spit on the officers and infect them—and their children—with coronavirus.
Court Handed Down Tough Sentence
Gray was jailed for eight weeks for assaulting officers, with an additional 11 weeks for the drug-driving offence. He was also fined £100 for public order offences and banned from driving for 26 months.
Police Praise Officers’ Bravery
“This attack on our officers whilst carrying out their duties… is an attack on every one of us,” said Superintendent Kris Wright of Central South Command Unit.
“Both officers displayed the finest qualities of the Met despite the risk of COVID-19 infection and his horrific desire to harm their children.
“I am grateful the court treated this matter with the seriousness it deserves.”
Superintendent Wright added that assaults on police remain rare, but urged the public to “protect the protectors” as officers continue to keep communities safe amid the pandemic.
