Man spared prison after biting, kicking and punching police officers attending a domestic incident in Hartlepool

Stephen William Smith, 45, of Belk Street was handed a 23-week sentence, suspended for 12 months after he attacked two police officers on Wednesday, March 25.

He appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, May 11 where he pleaded guilty.

The officers were called to an incident on Belk Street, in Hartlepool where they tried to escort a man out of a property.

As they removed the man, he proceeded to punch one in the face and the another was kicked and bitten.

At the time of the incident, Superintendent Sharon Cooney said: “Police put their lives at risk every day by protecting members of the public, and especially now with the crisis surrounding coronavirus.

“Attacking our officers whilst they are carrying out their duties is absolutely disgraceful.

“Police are under enough pressure keeping the people living in our communities safe without being assaulted.”

The man was also ordered to pay compensation to both officers.

Superintendent Cooney also issued a warning that Cleveland Police would not tolerate any attacks on their officers.

She added: “Officers are continuing to work as normal whilst a majority of people are staying at home in order to keep safe and they shouldn’t have to deal with the risk of being attacked.

“The force will not tolerate this behaviour under any circumstances and I want to make it clear that you will be brought to justice if you are caught assaulting or abusing any of our officers.”

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