A police chief has revealed the number of abusive incidents towards officers since the coronavirus lockdown began.

There have been 70 incidents of officers being coughed at or spat on, as they ensure people across the county adhere to the social distancing rules which were put in place last month.

Watch chief constable Alan Pughsley and police and crime commissioner Matthew Scott react to the incidents

Chief constable Alan Pughsley said: "We're up to about 70 assaults on staff from spitting and coughing and suchlike appalling behaviour.

"Those offenders have been arrested, they have been charged, remanded by my staff and put in front of the court.

"I hope the courts issue the hardest sentences they possibly can for people like that in this incredible unprecedented time.

He added: "It's appalling behaviour."

The police boss revealed the figure during this morning's weekly briefing, which has been set up to keep the public informed on the force's ongoing response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Kent's police and crime commissioner had harsh words for those who have been abusive towards officers across the county.

Speaking to KMTV earlier this week, Matthew Scott said: "It's absolutely disgusting that there are lowlifes out there who will spit on police officers or cough at them, irrespective of whether they had the disease or not.

"That they would even threaten it just goes to show what scumbags they really are."

In last week's briefing, CC Pughsley revealed seven officers had tested positive for Covid-19, and a further 24 were self-isolating with symptoms.

One officer was admitted to hospital for treatment, but has now returned home.

The police chief said: "We're pleased that officers and staff that have Covid-19 are doing incredibly well.

"None of them are in hospital anymore and none of them went into intensive care.

"As we speak today its six police officers and two police staff with confirmed Covid-19, and about 25-30 people who we suspected may have the virus, and we'll get them tested as soon as possible."

It comes after the force had to wait a number of weeks for testing to be made available to officers and staff.

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