Bexhill resident Jake Finn has been sentenced to three months in prison after assaulting a paramedic.
Emergency crews were called to Finn’s home on De La Warr Road over concerns for his welfare after he had taken drugs. When paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) arrived, Finn became abusive and spat in the face of a paramedic attempting to assist him.
The incident happened at 5:30am on May 3 last year. The victim later described the experience as “totally unwarranted,” saying, “I was there to provide a service to help him.”
Finn appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on January 27, where he admitted one count of assaulting an emergency worker. The court ruled his actions warranted a custodial sentence.
Chief Inspector Simon Yates of Rother Neighbourhood Policing Team said, “This was a disgraceful incident and shows the unacceptable levels of abuse our emergency service colleagues face. Abuse of emergency workers should not just be seen as part of the job, and we welcome the custodial sentence.”
SECAmb’s Security Manager, Dave Monk, added, “The actions of this individual were disgusting and something our ambulance crews should never have to endure. We welcome this custodial sentence and will continue to work closely with our police colleagues to hold offenders accountable.”
Authorities continue to stress a zero-tolerance approach to assaults on emergency workers, urging the public to respect and support those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
