Man jailed for punching police officer who went to help paramedics in the face

A man who punched a police officer in the face in Canterbury has been jailed.

Charlie Hawker attacked the officer after they were called by paramedics in March.

The 26-year-old, of Kenardington, near Ashford, was sentenced to 13 months in prison.

Three officers were called to Thanington Road on Sunday 1 March 2020 by paramedics.

They had been trying to help Hawker, who was heavily intoxicated, but asked for Kent Police back up as they feared for their safety.

He made abusive comments to all three officers before punching one on them in the face

He was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court to nine months for the assault and an extra four months for beaching a suspended sentenced he was given for unlawful wounding in 2019.

Pc Jason Szarek, the investigating officer from Kent Police, said: "None of our officers should have to tolerate being abused or assaulted while trying to keep people safe.

"It should never be seen as part of our job.

" hope the message of this case is clear; assault one of our officers and you face serious consequences."