A THUG who assaulted two police officers has been locked-up for three weeks for his “violent” offences.

Duncan Ford beat the pair of male officers during an incident in Colchester on Sunday, June 26, while they attempted to exercise their duties.

Colchester Magistrates’ Court heard the 55-year-old would then go on to damage a holding cell belonging to Essex Police during his rampage of reckless behaviour.

An Essex Police spokesman said the impact such attacks have on the force’s officers couldn’t be underestimated following the court sentencing.

Ford, of Haven Road, Colchester, admitted the trio of crimes and was sentenced to 21 days imprisonment.

Magistrates stated they had to jail Ford as the “violent” offence meant they had a responsibility to protect the public and therefore he was ineligible for a community order.

He must also pay £60 in compensation for his crimes.

The police spokesman added: “Our officers, staff and volunteers work tirelessly and selflessly, to protect and serve the people of Essex.

“We are proud of all our officers and staff, and the fantastic work they do to keep our communities safe, catch criminals and bring them to justice.

“But sadly, at times policing is a difficult and dangerous job and on occasions they are required to put themselves at risk in order to protect the public.

“Just like the public we serve, they come to work to do their job to the best of their ability, and their families expect them to come home safely, just like any other family.

“None of our officers should have to put up with being assaulted at work - whether that's being spat at, hit, or driven at.

“We cannot underestimate the impact that these actions have on our officers and volunteers, whether they're physical or psychological.

“Any assault, whether resulting in injury or not, is completely unacceptable.

“Anyone responsible for assaulting a member of our staff can expect to be arrested and brought to justice.”