A yob who claimed he had coronavirus and threatened to spit at two officers has been jailed.
Police chiefs say it should serve as a warning that this kind of behaviour would not be tolerated as the country tackles the pandemic.
Shaun Sleigh, 31, was arrested after officers were called to his flat at Hilltop Court in Walkden last Friday.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said he they had been called over criminal damage.
Sleigh was detained, however, in the process he assaulted a female officer.
He then said he had COVID-19 and threatened to spit at the officer and her colleagues.
He had to be placed in a spit guard before being taken into custody.
He was charged with three counts of assaulting an emergency worker and pleaded guilty at Manchester Magistrates Court on Saturday.
He was jailed for eight months and was ordered to pay compensation.
Speaking afterwards Chief Inspector Roger Pegram, from GMP’s Salford division said: “Sleigh’s behaviour towards these officers was absolutely disgraceful, especially considering the country’s ongoing response to COVID-19.
“My officers were just doing their job – to keep Greater Manchester safe to the best of their abilities.
"No public servant should ever be faced with violence, especially not when they are trying to protect communities.
“I hope this result acts as a warning that neither GMP nor the justice system will tolerate this kind of behaviour
"Anyone found guilty could receive a custodial sentence.”
