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Southampton man jailed after punching police officer
Blaine Robert Latta, of Spring Road, was sentenced to 21 months in prison at Southampton Crown Court after assaulting PC George Arnott as the officer tried to arrest him.
The incident occurred on October 1 while PC Arnott was on patrol near The Avenue and recognised Latta as someone wanted on recall to prison.
As PC Arnott attempted to arrest him, the 33-year-old resisted and punched the officer in the face, causing him to fall to the ground.
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Latta then tried to escape on foot, but additional officers arrived and arrested him following a chase.
PC Arnott sustained a black eye and a cut above his eye that required hospital treatment and stitches.
Sergeant Andrew Venning of the Neighbourhood Enforcement Team praised the officer’s actions on the day.
Sgt Venning said: "I want to commend George for his outstanding professionalism and resilience in what was a frightening and volatile situation.
"Despite being assaulted, he remained determined to do everything he could to prevent Latta from escaping and causing further harm.
"We take assaults on officers very seriously, and this case sends out a strong message that those who carry out such attacks will not get away with them.
"The sentence handed down shows the courts are treating this with the seriousness it deserves."
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He also acknowledged the role of the public in securing the conviction.
Sgt Venning said: "My thanks goes out to the member of the public who recorded the incident, which was instrumental in securing this conviction.
"This was a particularly nasty assault, and I am glad the sentence reflects the severity of the offence."
The officer also highlighted the importance of teamwork in ensuring Latta’s arrest.
Sgt Venning said: "The swift arrival and action of the supporting officers was also critical in bringing Latta into custody.
"Their teamwork and commitment ensured that a wanted and dangerous individual is now where he belongs – in jail."
Latta was jailed for 21 months after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.