A THUG who attacked a police officer and hurled foul mouthed abuse at three medical emergency workers on a blue light call has been jailed.

Emergency services were attended an incident in Cutting Drive, Halstead, near to where James Parkes lives in July.

A first responder and two paramedics were carrying out checks on a woman after concerns had been raised about her welfare.

The 51-year-old Parkes began threatening them and swearing as they tried to help the stricken patient.

They were then forced to call a police officer after fearing they may get attacked such was the ferocity of the abuse.

When the officer arrived, Parkes proceeded to headbutt him.

Fortunately they escaped with no serious injuries but felt some pain.

Parkes was taken to custody and later charged.

He received three 23 week jail terms for the three counts of threatening behaviour and 12 weeks for assaulting a police officer following a hearing at Colchester Magistrates' Court.

They will all run concurrently and he must pay a £115 fine.

Braintree district commander, Chief Insp Janette Rawlingson described Parkes' behaviour as totally unacceptable towards emergency workers who were simply doing their jobs.

She said: “Parkes was disruptive, abusive and threatening to paramedics who responded to a call for help.

“They feared for their safety when they were doing their job, helping to save lives.

“Our officer came to their calls for help and was attacked, this is totally unacceptable. Fortunately, he wasn’t seriously injured.

“Parkes will now have time to think about his actions locked in prison.”