A man has been jailed after he racially abused and assaulted a police officer.
Steven Benfield was sentenced at Liverpool Magistrates Court today. The 30-year-old had pleaded guilty to racially aggravated public order, assault of an emergency worker and criminal damage to a police vehicle.
The incident took place on June 15 when officers were called to a disturbance at a home in Huyton. Benfield, of no fixed address, was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence.
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However, he racially abused, assaulted and spat at officers as he was being taken into custody. Benfield was handed 36 weeks in prison and was also ordered to pay court costs and a victim surcharge of £154.
Knowsley's Community Policing Inspector said he was pleased Benfield's abusive behaviour was dealt with by the courts. Mark Berry added: "Our officers and staff put their own lives and personal safety on the line every day in order to keep us all safe but they should never have to tolerate or accept physical violence when carrying out their duties.
"I’m sure the vast majority of law-abiding members of the public would agree that assaults on police officers or other emergency workers are totally unacceptable. Not only do they have a massive impact on the officers themselves but also on their families and work colleagues and, as with all acts of violence, we will fully investigate and prosecute offenders where appropriate.
"My message to those who carry out violence against police is this: please remember, one day you or your families may need our help too."
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