Assaults on Emergency Workers Soar by 29% in August
Assaults on emergency service workers rocketed by a shocking 29% in August compared to last year, sparking outrage from the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW).
Police Federation Slams Shocking Rise in Violence
Reacting to the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) provisional stats, PFEW National Chair John Apter blasted the spike. He said: “This 29% increase in assaults on frontline workers is unacceptable and appalling. Police officers are working flat out to protect the public during this pandemic, yet some people still choose violence. They need to take a long, hard look at themselves.”
“Being assaulted as a frontline worker—whether police, fire, health or prison—must not be tolerated. Offenders must face the full force of the law.”
Other Crime Trends Revealed
- Mental health-related incidents rose 5%.
- Overall police-recorded crime dropped 3% versus 2019 levels.
- Reports of rape climbed 4%.
- Domestic abuse incidents surged 7%.
Policing Faces Growing Pressure
Mr Apter added: “The return to pre-COVID crime rates isn’t surprising. Lockdowns meant fewer people on the streets and less crime opportunity. The rise in mental health callouts is worrying but predictable, as police often act as first responders.
“My colleagues will keep doing their best, but there is no magic box of extra officers waiting to be opened. Policing is under real strain with this increasing demand.”
