A 40-year-old man has been jailed for three years after an attempted robbery in Chatham earlier this year.

Robert Roache of no fixed address was arrested on September 8 after the incident on Institute Road that evening.

He had approached a 31-year-old man walking along the road and demanded cigarettes.

When he refused Roache became aggressive and threatened him.

The victim wasn’t hurt and didn’t have anything stolen but went into a friend’s house and called police.

Once patrols arrived, Roache was identified and arrested. He was seen to drop a knife and became aggressive towards officers. He then spat at two of the arresting officers.

Roache was charged with attempted robbery, two incidents of assaulting a police officer, two incidents of using threatening and abusive behaviour, indecent exposure and possession of an offensive weapon.

He pleaded guilty to all offences and was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court.

Det Insp Ann Lisseman said: "This incident not only caused distress to an innocent member of the public but also to two police officers carrying out their duty. Roache’s behaviour was unacceptable and we are pleased that the Judge has recognised that he is a dangerous offender.

"This sentence sends a clear message that people who decide to carry weapons, threaten people and assault police officers will be dealt with robustly by the Criminal Justice System. We are pleased with the sentence given and hope that it acts as a deterrent to others who think about carrying out acts of violence.’