'The courts are still not backing our police officers': Dismay at sentence for woman who spat at South Yorkshire police officers

South Yorkshire police officers who were spat and coughed at by a woman during the coronavirus pandemic are disappointed at the sentenced handed out.
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Keeley Jones, aged 34, of Highstone View, Worbrough Common, Barnsley, launched her attack on two police officers and a detention officer while in custody on Tuesday.

She spat and coughed at the trio while claiming she had coronavirus.

South Yorkshire Police Federation chairman Steve Kent. Picture Scott MerryleesSouth Yorkshire Police Federation chairman Steve Kent. Picture Scott Merrylees
South Yorkshire Police Federation chairman Steve Kent. Picture Scott Merrylees
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After being charged with three counts of assault on an emergency service worker, Jones was handed a 16-week prison sentence, suspended for a year.

During a hearing at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court she was made the subject of an eight-week curfew, placed on an electronic tag and ordered to pay her victims £75 in compensation.

The sentence has been condemned by the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation.

Chairman Steve Kent said: “Whilst I totally applaud the work getting this individual sent to court and prosecuted, the sentence which includes a suspended sentence and a curfew, of which a good portion will probably be served under lockdown, in many ways makes it an absolutely pointless exercise.

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“I understand the officers are rightly angry and annoyed by this verdict. I share their frustration and anger.

“This was a disgusting and vile attack and this feeble sentence shows that sadly the courts are still not backing our police officers, who like our wonderful NHS colleagues, are out there risking their health during this outbreak to keep people safe.

“Utterly disgusting and a very poor message to send out to others who might decide to behave like animals towards officers and emergency service staff.”