A man has been jailed after assaulting two police officers in Brighton, thanks in part to a quick-thinking member of the public who helped officers detain him.
Andrew Hipkiss, 40, of no fixed address, appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on April 11, where he pleaded guilty to three charges of resisting arrest and two counts of assaulting an emergency worker.
Police had been called to London Road, Brighton, at 9.08am on Thursday, April 10, following reports of an intoxicated man shouting abuse at passersby.
When officers arrived, Hipkiss became aggressive, refusing to give his details and resisting arrest. He then fled the scene on foot.
A member of the public waiting to cross the road saw the chase and stuck out his leg to trip Hipkiss, helping officers regain control. During the struggle, Hipkiss punched and spat at the officers and bit one of them. Both officers required hospital treatment for their injuries.
Hipkiss was sentenced to 26 weeks in custody and ordered to pay £200 compensation.
Superintendent Petra Lazar, of Brighton and Hove division, said:
“The behaviour of Hipkiss was appalling, and it is completely unacceptable for officers to be attacked while carrying out their duties.
It should not simply be seen as ‘part of the job’. Our officers are here to protect the public and keep our communities safe.
We are pleased that Hipkiss will serve a significant custodial sentence for these incidents.”
Police praised the actions of the member of the public, describing it as a moment of community courage that helped bring a violent situation under control.
