UK designs guard to protect cops from spitting criminals
Criminals and suspects spitting at British policemen has become such a problem that authorities have designed a “spit guard” to be put on the lower half of the offending suspect’s face after being handcuffed.
A survey revealed that one in four police officers is spat at while on duty, prompting demands in Leicester that police personnel be issued spit guards as part of their protective equipment.
Tiff Lynch of the Leicestershire Police Federation said: “In recent years, we have seen a growing number of assaults on police officers and sadly many of them have come to accept that being physically attacked is part of the job. But it is not, and nor should it ever be considered so.
“As a force, it is essential that we provide officers and staff the best protective equipment we can. Spit guards are now an essential part of that protective kit…If you don’t want to wear a spit guard then don’t spit at a police officer.”
Made of 100% breathable nylon, the elasticated covering sits comfortably over the nose and mouth and rests around the neck like a snood, police said.
The federation is running a UK-wide Protect the Protectors campaign to highlight the increase in attacks on police officers.
Leicestershire police said in a statement: “Not only is it distasteful, saliva, especially when it contains blood can carry a number of infectious diseases, including hepatitis, meaning the officer potentially facing weeks of associated anxiety and medication to prevent infection.”
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