Attack on council officer in Hereford prompts review and investigation
The officer was reportedly assaulted whilst on Union Street
An enforcement officer working in Hereford has reportedly been attacked on Union Street in Hereford.
We're told it happened on 31st August, prompting an investigation by West Mercia Police and condemnation from Herefordshire Council.
The incident involved the officer being kicked to the ground and subsequently kicked multiple times while on the ground.
Members of the public intervened, leading to the officer being hospitalised with severe bruising.
He did not sustain further serious injuries following medical checks.
A man has been arrested in connection with the attack, though no charges have been filed at this stage, and police enquiries are ongoing.
Herefordshire Council is offering support to the officer and collaborating with the police, including providing potential evidence from his body-worn camera.
A risk assessment of the location will be carried out as part of the incident review.
In response to the attack, Herefordshire Council has advised enforcement officers working in the area to remain vigilant.
This incident occurs alongside the Council's ongoing No Excuse for Abuse campaign, which aims to combat the abuse faced by frontline workers.
The campaign reinforces the message that verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and physical violence are unacceptable against those carrying out their roles.
Councillor Barry Durkin expressed gratitude for the public's intervention during the incident, and reaffirmed the Council's commitment to supporting affected staff and collaborating with the police.
Councillor Jonathan Lester highlighted the challenges faced by council staff and emphasised the need for public servants to be treated with dignity and respect.
Police Sergeant Duncan Reynolds confirmed the arrest of a suspect and pledged continued cooperation with Herefordshire Council to review protection measures for enforcement officers.
'There can be no excuse for attacking someone who is simply doing their job'
Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Roads and Regulatory Services, Councillor Barry Durkin, said: “There can be no excuse for attacking someone who is simply doing their job. Our enforcement officers are people, with families and lives outside work, and they should be able to carry out their duties without fear of being threatened, abused or assaulted.
“We are deeply concerned by what has happened and our immediate priority is supporting the officer involved as well as his colleagues. We are also working closely with West Mercia Police and will provide whatever assistance we can to support their investigation.”
Herefordshire Council Leader, Councillor Jonathan Lester, said: “Our staff are here to support and serve the people of Herefordshire, often in challenging circumstances and difficult conditions. Whether they are working during severe weather, responding to flooding, carrying out enforcement duties or helping residents who may be volatile or distressed, they should never have to fear abuse, threats or violence.
“This incident is concerning and highlights the risks that many frontline workers face as they go about their duties on behalf of the community. We owe them our thanks and support, and we must be clear that violence towards public servants is completely unacceptable.
“Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect at work. The vast majority of our residents do just that, and we are grateful for the support shown by the member of the public who intervened. Together, we can help ensure that those who work to support our communities can do so safely.”
Police Sergeant Duncan Reynolds of Hereford city centre team added: “No one should expect to be assaulted while simply carrying out their job and everyone should expect to go to work without fear of harassment, threat or abuse.
“We have arrested a man for this incident, and he has been bailed while enquiries are ongoing. “We will continue to work with our partners at Herefordshire Council to support them as they review measures to protect their enforcement officers.”
People with information about the incident are encouraged to contact West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident reference number 22/85145/26.
More details about the No Excuse for Abuse campaign can be found on Herefordshire Council's website.