[A] MAN has been jailed for discharging CS gas which went into the face of a police officer who was trying to arrest him.
Carlisle Crown Court heard PC Bruce Kemp was left with a “burning sensation” to his eyes and cheek, and a “strong urge to vomit” following the incident in Wigton on May 23.
Ben Wiggins discharged one of two CS gas canisters he was carrying illegally as he was being detained in respect of a separate matter.
Wiggins, 27, appeared over a video link in front of Judge Barbara Forrester in court today (MON). He admitted assaulting PC Kemp with intent to resist his lawful apprehension. At a previous hearing he had pleaded guilty to the illegal possession of a CS gas canister.
Judge Forrester heard Wiggins had not discharged the gas directly towards PC Kemp, nor intended to spray it in his face or injure him in any way. However, the court heard the PC’s confidence as a response officer had been affected.
Wiggins, of Brindlefield, Wigton, was handed a 26-week prison sentence by the judge, who said: “I view this matter very seriously.”
