West Yorkshire Police releases footage of assaults on officers from people claiming to have coronavirus

Some 33 assaults have been recorded by West Yorkshire Police whereby officers have been coughed at, spat or breathed on by members of the public claiming to have coronavirus.

Such incidents are now classed as assault on an emergency services worker under new legal guidance brought forward last month.

The force has now released footage of three incidents where officers appear to be assaulted, as its deputy chief constable speaks out on the crime, which he described as "disgraceful" and "wholly unacceptable".

Deputy Chief Constable Russ Foster also described the assaults as an attack on the front line and a severe hindrance to the current public health effort.

He said: “At a time when the country is in lockdown, West Yorkshire Police officers and staff put themselves at risk on a daily basis to reassure our communities and keep them safe.

“Assaults on officers and staff are wholly unacceptable at any time and I hope the courts acknowledge the severity of these people’s actions in sentencing them.

“Policing is a difficult enough job at the moment and officers and staff worry whether they might pick up the virus and may be taking it home to their loved ones. While we are taking whatever precautions we can, these attacks clearly heighten the risk and cause increased distress."

Of the 33 assaults recorded so far during the outbreak, 30 were against a police officer and three were against detention officers. 20 cases, including the three shown in the video, resulted in a charge or court summons, while ten remain under investigation.

Three did not result in a charge due to difficulties over evidence.

Seven of the people charged have received custodial sentences for the assaults.

One of those was Lianne Mottershead, 30, from Huddersfield, was jailed for eight months after spitting on a custody sergeant at Trafalgar House Police Station in Bradford and telling staff, "hope you die of corona".

Deputy Chief Constable Foster added: “I am really pleased that the West Yorkshire public’s response to lockdown so far has, on the whole, been fantastic. Most people are following the rules, staying home and helping to save lives.

“There have been some tremendous examples of community spirit and outpourings of support for the NHS and other carers.

“The actions of a few though, are disgraceful and I will continue to push for them to be charged and brought before the courts at every opportunity.

“I am tremendously proud of the work my officers and staff are doing and want to publicly thank every officer and staff member in West Yorkshire Police for their continued commitment at this difficult time.”