There is widespread outrage after a 21-year-old man who repeatedly assaulted two female police officers in Bournemouth was spared an immediate jail sentence.
Tariku Hadgu, an Ethiopian asylum seeker who entered the UK illegally three years ago, attacked the officers during an incident on April 18 outside a central Bournemouth bar.
Despite the severity of the assault, District Judge Michael Snow at Poole Magistrates’ Court suspended Hadgu’s 16-week prison sentence, citing his “not fully formed brain.”
Brutal Attack on Emergency Workers
Hadgu launched a violent assault after officers approached him, responding to reports of a man carrying a knife matching his description.
During the incident:
- Hadgu punched both officers repeatedly in the face.
- He pinned one officer to the ground, raining further blows to her abdomen.
- A brave member of the public intervened to pull him away.
One officer sustained serious bruising to her face and cheekbones. Both victims expressed fear that Hadgu could have drawn a weapon at any moment.
Hadgu was found to be intoxicated and in possession of cannabis at the time.
Controversial Sentencing Sparks Backlash
The judge acknowledged the gravity of the assault, telling Hadgu:
“This is more serious than your standard assault as it was on two officers. The Home Office needs to know about this because it is extremely relevant information as to whether he should be allowed to stay in the country.”
However, citing Hadgu’s youth and “not fully formed brain,” the judge:
- Suspended the 16-week prison sentence for one year.
- Imposed a 12-week curfew.
- Banned Hadgu from all bars and clubs in Dorset for one year.
- Ordered him to pay £250 compensation to each officer, deducted from his taxpayer-funded support.
The decision has triggered a wave of public anger, particularly in light of repeated government promises to impose tougher penalties for assaults on emergency workers.
Broader Concerns Raised
Critics argue the sentence undermines public confidence and sends the wrong message about protecting frontline workers, particularly women in policing roles.
Commentators also questioned the use of the “brain development” argument, pointing out that by age 20, most cognitive faculties — especially relating to understanding consequences — are well-established.
Many are now calling for urgent review of sentencing guidelines for assaults against emergency personnel.
