A South Yorkshire thug who assaulted two police officers had to be subdued with pepper sprays

Sheffield Crown Court heard on April 7 how Gareth Cregg, aged 39, of Bentley Road, near Bentley Rise, Doncaster, became aggressive towards two police officers after they had been called out to a hotel following a report of a disturbance.

Aaron Dinnes, prosecuting, said: “On March 7, 2021, both officers attended Bentley Road, Doncaster, to reports of a male banging on doors and making various threats.

"Upon arrival, the defendant grew aggressive towards the officers and continued to make said threats.”

Mr Dinnes added that initially Cregg calmed down but then became aggressive towards one of the officers, swearing and insulting him and as an attempt was made to arrest the defendant for a breach of the peace he attacked this officer.

Cregg tried to punch the officer before getting him into a headlock and pulling him to the floor placing so much pressure on his neck that the officer feared for his life, according to Mr Dinnes.

Mr Dinnes added that as the other officer tried to grab the defendant she was pushed away and both officers had to deploy pepper sprays before Cregg could be detained.

Cregg, who has previous convictions including assaults, pleaded guilty to two counts of assaulting an emergency worker.

Andrew Swaby, defending, said: "This defendant accepts his behaviour was totally inappropriate at the time and he should have cooperated with the officers.”

Mr Swaby added Cregg’s record is consistent with a person who resorts to violence linked to alcohol abuse but the defendant has sought support from his GP in relation to anger management and alcohol issues.

Recorder Megan Rhys told Cregg: “This was an appalling piece of violence against two police officers who attended to simply carry out their duties and to respond to concerns by members of the public.”

She added: “These offences were a pattern of offending. When looking at your record they were both committed under the influence of alcohol which again is a recurring theme.”

Recorder Rhys sentenced Cregg to nine months of custody.

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