MP: I’ll make representations over lenient sentence for street attack on police officer

I suspect my reaction to your front page story of December 15 (Is That Justice?) was similar to that of many of your other readers – shock and disappointment that the man found guilty of assaulting a police officer was merely fined for his behaviour.

Ordinary, decent people know that breaking the law in such a violent way should incur serious penalties, and, in this instance, surely a prison sentence.
Police officers do dangerous jobs, and so those who assault them, in my view, should be subject to especially strict sentences.
A relatively small fine is simply not an appropriate punishment, nor would it act as a suitable deterrent to others.

That’s why I will make clear to the magistrates’ court – who often feel that their hands are tied – my disappointment at such a lenient penalty, as well as writing to the Police and Crime Commissioner. I will also contact the Attorney General and the Home Office.

Councillors Gary Taylor and Jack McLean deserve all our thanks and praise for their bravery in responding to a spiteful and unprovoked attack.

John Hayes
South Holland and The Deepings MP


more >

Round Table’s brilliant support for appeal

30 Dec 2024

Fleet was lit up for the festive period

30 Dec 2024

Sex offender avoids jail over thousands of images of children

27 Dec 2024

New sculptures for Spalding passed

27 Dec 2024

Fancy dress for a cause ‘deer’ to Osten

20 Dec 2024

Landlords fined after unsafe electricity found in seven homes

19 Dec 2024