Police federation calls for review on '˜gouging' suspended sentence

Liam Armstrong, 27, of Graton Street, Selsey, admitted four assaults on police in Fratton, on July 18.

He was on drugs and had been drinking when he caused a serious injury to one officer by gouging their eyes.

John Apter, Chairman of Hampshire Police Federation, said: ‘The sentence imposed for assaulting four police officers is an insult and highlights the complete lack of deterrent for those who commit such offences.

‘This was an incident where four officers were assaulted, with two requiring hospital treatment for their injuries.

‘Police officers assaulted whilst doing their job deserve to have the support from the courts – and on this occasion they have been badly let down.

‘Any public official such as a police officer, paramedic, nurse or firefighter must have the support of the court system if they are assaulted whilst carrying out their duties.

‘This is why I have called for mandatory prison sentences for those who commit such acts.’

He added: ‘I am working with others to bring about this change but within the meantime decisions such as the one we have seen in this case must be challenged, this is something we will do on behalf of those hard working and dedicated police officers we represent.’

Portsmouth magistrates imposed a two-month term suspended for a year.