Hampshire Police to Gear Up With Spit Guards Amid Rising Assaults
Hampshire police officers are set to get spit guards to shield themselves and the public from dangerous spit attacks. The force already uses these guards in custody suites, but the gear will now be rolled out to all frontline officers.
Spitting Attacks on the Rise
Since April 2016, officers in Hampshire have recorded 126 spit-related assaults, with an alarming increase in cases involving spitting of blood. This worrying trend has pushed Hampshire Police, along with Thames Valley Police, to adopt spit guards for broader frontline use once training is complete.
Senior Cops Back the Move
David Hardcastle, Assistant Chief Constable for Hampshire and Thames Valley, said: “Spit guards are being introduced to help protect officers, other emergency service personnel and members of the public from this unacceptable and potentially dangerous behaviour.”
He added: “Our officers face risks every day. Everyone deserves to go to work without fearing assaults, including being spat at. We’ve listened to the Police Federation and public advisory groups, and they support this move.”
Michael Lane, Hampshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, was clear: “Assaulting police officers is unacceptable. Spitting is a vile attack carrying serious health risks. Spit guards are a crucial tool to keep officers safe while protecting the public.”
Lane even tried on the updated spit guard himself and pledged to hold the Chief Constable accountable to ensure these devices stay the right choice for frontline defence.
Frontline Officers Applaud the Protection
John Apter, Chairman of the Hampshire Police Federation, slammed spitting as a “vile and dangerous act.” He revealed many spit attacks involve blood and called for spit guards nationwide.
“I’ve campaigned for this for a while,” Apter said. “It sends a clear message: if you don’t want a spit guard on you, don’t spit at an officer. Our officers deserve this protection.”
What Are Spit Guards?
- Spit guards are lightweight, see-through masks that fit over a suspect’s head.
- They block spit and blood, preventing contamination of officers’ eyes, mouth or open wounds.
- Designed to reduce infectious disease risks, including Hepatitis C.
- Already in use by several UK police forces.
Strict Protocols for Use
Spit guards will only be used on handcuffed suspects who have spat or attempt to spit at officers. All frontline officers will receive full training to ensure safe use, including:
- Explaining to suspects why the spit guard is being used.
- Constant monitoring while the device is in place.
- Respecting the suspect’s dignity at all times.
- Recording and reviewing all incidents involving spit guards.
With rising spit attacks putting officers at risk, Hampshire Police’s move to arm their frontline with spit guards marks a strong stand against this nasty assault.
