THROUGHOUT the coronavirus lockdown on more than one emergency worker was assaulted in Dorset every day on average.

Dorset Police have reported that between March 23 and May 17 – a period of 56 days – a total of 89 police and emergency workers were targeted while responding to the pandemic.

The number of incidents has been highlighted by the force as part of the ongoing #Unacceptable campaign, which was launched following a trend in the number of verbal abuse, assaults or attacks emergency service and local authority staff face and the rising number involving threats of COVID-19 infection.

Chief Constable James Vaughan, of Dorset Police, said: “Our officers and staff, along with other emergency services colleagues and key workers, demonstrate commitment, courage and dedication on a daily basis.

"They signed up to help protect the public, not to come into work each day with the risk of being assaulted, attacked, verbally abused or intentionally infected by COVID-19. The impact this can have on them, their colleagues and their families can have serious consequences."

As reported, a man was jailed after spitting at two police officers and threatening to infect them with coronavirus.

Appearing at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday, May 15, Tony John Gallichan, of Kerley Road, Bournemouth was sentenced to eight months behind bars after admitting two charges of assaulting an emergency worker.

He reportedly told officers: "You’ll catch coronavirus if I get one of you in the eye."