Concern over number of attacks on South Yorkshire Police officers

New government figures reveal there were 662 assaults on police officers in South Yorkshire last year.
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The figures show 257 of the assaults resulted in officers sustaining injuries in the line of duty.

South Yorkshire Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, described the number of attacks as ‘completely unacceptable’.

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Assistant Chief Constable Tim Forber, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Our officers come to work every day, with no way of knowing what type of incident they may respond to, or the dangers they may face while protecting the public.

Concerns have been raised over attacks on South Yorkshire Police officersConcerns have been raised over attacks on South Yorkshire Police officers
Concerns have been raised over attacks on South Yorkshire Police officers

“While police are highly trained to deal with difficult and potentially dangerous situations, assaults are never seen as 'part of the job' and our officers should be able to work without the fear of being abused or attacked.

“We ensure that any assaults on our officers and staff are investigated robustly and thoroughly.

“We offer extensive and ongoing welfare support for our colleagues and the investigations are carried out with the same care, compassion and commitment we would offer to a member of the public.”

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South Yorkshire officer, PC Lisa Bates, was left fighting for life in 2016.

Nathan Sumner struck her with an axe when she responded to a call about an incident at his Gleadless Valley flat.

PC Bates, who never returned to work afterwards, suffered a fractured skull and partially-severed finger in the axe attack, having already broken her leg jumping down a staircase in an attempt to escape.

Sumner was found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent and detained for 15 years.