Four Assaults a Day on Kent Police Since 2020
Kent Police officers face an average of four assaults every single day since April 2020. While trying to detain suspects and protect vulnerable people, officers are routinely kicked, punched, bitten, and spat at.
Racist Abuse Alarms Kent Officers
Alongside physical attacks, 66 incidents of racist abuse towards officers and police staff have been reported in the same period. Chief Constable Alan Pughsley, who leads national efforts on officer safety, condemned the vile behaviour.
“Being assaulted must never be seen as just part of the job,” said Pughsley. “It is abhorrent that so many are being attacked while doing their duties.”
“It is totally unacceptable that criminals lash out at the brave men and women who want to protect them and their communities.”
“There is absolutely no place in society for racist abuse. No one should suffer behaviour motivated by prejudice.”
Rising Assaults and Abuse Numbers
- 2020/21: 1,610 assaults and 37 racist abuse cases
- 2021/22 (up to March 16): 1,615 assaults and 29 racist abuse cases
Call for Tougher Sentences
A Government bill currently before Parliament aims to double the maximum jail term for assaults on emergency workers from 12 months to two years.
Chief Constable Pughsley backs the move, branding attackers as “an absolute disgrace.”
“Police run toward danger while others run away. They don’t deserve to be physically attacked for their efforts,” he said.
“Injuries range from bruises to breaks, not to mention the trauma of being spat at or bitten and waiting weeks for infection results.”
“We provide welfare support and protective gear like spit guards and tasers to safeguard officers and the public.”
“Anyone caught attacking or racially abusing officers will be arrested and charged.”
