Four Assaults a Day on Kent Police Officers
Since April 2020, Kent police have faced an average of four assaults every single day. Officers endure being kicked, punched, bitten, and spat at while trying to keep the peace and protect vulnerable people.
Racist Abuse Adds to the Toll
Alongside physical attacks, there have been 66 reported incidents of racist abuse aimed at officers and police staff in Kent during the same period. Chief Constable Alan Pughsley, who also leads on Officer and Staff Safety nationally, slammed these attacks as “abhorrent” and “totally unacceptable.”
“The vast majority of officers enter the police service because they want to protect people and keep their communities safe. It is therefore totally unacceptable that some criminals think nothing of lashing out at those brave men and women who would also be there to help them and their families if they needed it.”
“There is absolutely no place in society for offences motivated by prejudice and nobody should be subjected to that type of behaviour.”
Rising Assault Figures and Tougher Sentences Proposed
- 2020/21 saw 1,610 assaults on Kent officers and 37 racist abuse cases.
- 2021/22 (up to March 16) recorded 1,615 assaults and 29 racist incidents.
Parliament is debating a proposal to double the maximum jail term for assaulting emergency workers from 12 months to two years under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill 2021.
Chief Constable Demands Justice and Better Protection
Chief Constable Pughsley said offenders who attack emergency workers are “an absolute disgrace.” He voiced full support for harsher sentences.
“Police officers run towards danger when others run away. They do not deserve to be physically attacked for their efforts.”
“Too many suffer cuts, bruises, breaks, and emotional trauma – especially when bitten or spat at while waiting weeks to find out if they’ve caught diseases.”
“Our officers receive the same care as other violent crime victims, with a strong welfare system and access to protective gear like spit guards and tasers.”
“Attacks and racist abuse against officers and staff will never be tolerated. Those responsible will be arrested, charged, and brought to justice.”
