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Suffolk police chiefs have expressed concern over a recent series of assaults on officers, with several incidents reported across the county in the past ten days. Two officers in Ipswich were among those attacked.
The big picture: The assaults are part of a wider pattern across Suffolk, with incidents reported in Lowestoft, Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds, Worlington, Stowmarket, Martlesham, and Bungay.
Chief Superintendent Alice Scott has condemned the attacks, calling them "unacceptable." The assaults range from physical violence to spitting at officers.
In Ipswich, one officer was punched in the head, and another headbutted at Ipswich Hospital after detaining a suspected drunk driver.
Another Ipswich officer was punched by a man resisting arrest for allegedly assaulting door staff.
What they're saying:
Tim Passmore, Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner, called the attacks "utterly deplorable" and stressed there is no excuse for such behaviour.
Ch Supt Scott emphasised that officers "support and protect people in the community" and should not face violence while performing their duties.
What's next: Police say they will take action against perpetrators to secure prosecutions and "bring them to justice."
Officers receive extensive training to reduce the likelihood of assaults and minimise harm if they occur.
Several suspects have been charged and bailed to appear in court in the coming months.
The bottom line: Authorities are calling for the public's respect and cooperation to ensure the safety of officers on the job.
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