By Litter warden spat at in Grimsby town centre
Officers for Humberside Police are investigating after a litter warden was spat at while on duty on Victoria Street in Grimsby town centre.
The incident is thought to have happened at around 10:15am on Saturday, June 20.
The environmental enforcement officer was targeted near the Cash Generator shop on Victoria Street.
Legally, spitting is considered assault.
Significant action has been taken against the offence since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, and several have been jailed for the crime.
North East Lincolnshire Council are now asking witnesses to contact Humberside Police following the incident.
Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for Safer and Stronger Communities at North East Lincolnshire Council, said:
“Enforcement officers are here to help keep the borough free from litter and dog mess.
“They have the right to work in a safe environment and we will not tolerate any abuse directed at people working on behalf of the council.
“It’s unacceptable that someone who is working hard to improve the town for the benefit of everyone has been spat at in the street.
“We will not tolerate violence, physical aggression or verbal abuse of officers working on our behalf.
“Behaviour like this is disgusting, especially given the concerns about coronavirus.
“If you saw what happened or have any information about the incident, please report it to the police.”
A spokesperson for Humberside Police added:
“No one should have to suffer being assaulted or abused for simply doing their job.
“An investigation has been launched into the circumstances of this incident and we’re appealing for any witnesses to get in touch with us on our non-emergency 101 line, quoting incident number 16/64926/20.”
Patrols restarted in North East Lincolnshire last week after people left piles of cans, bottles, nappies and other litter in places including Grimsby town centre, Cleethorpes beach including Weelsby Woods.
Litter wardens can issue fixed penalty tickets for littering, cycling and dog control offences, as well as for smoking in commercial vehicles.
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