A man who spat in the face of a police officer and then claimed he had coronavirus has been jailed.

Emergency services were called to reports of an altercation in Jemmet Street, Plungington on Wednesday (May 20) around 5.45pm.

Police arrested Lee Howell, of Jemmet Street, on suspicion of assault.

The 31-year-old became aggressive following his arrest and began calling police ‘rats’.

Howell was put in the police van and as he was being put into the vehicle he spat in the face of an officer.

As he was taken to custody Howell claimed he had Covid-19 and hoped officers died and all of the officer’s families also died and they never saw them again.

Police say Howell continued to chant ‘Corona’ while being detained in custody and abuse officers.

Howell was charged with assault by beating of an emergency worker and appeared at Preston Magistrates’ Court during Friday (May 22). He pleaded guilty.

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Preston Magistrates’ sentenced Howell to six months in prison and ordered to pay a £128 surcharge.

Superintendent Karen Edwards said: “Howell’s conduct was absolutely appalling and will not be tolerated. This was a dangerous and despicable offence, particularly given the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is completely unacceptable that this brave front line officer has been subject this act when he was doing his best to keep our communities safe. I welcome Howell’s imprisonment which should serve as a warning to others who commit such offensive acts.”

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