Man jailed for violent attack on police officer who ‘smiled’

A man who punched a police officer in the face because he ‘smiled’ has been jailed.

Jacob Hall assaulted the Cambridgeshire officer, in Jesus Green, Cambridge, on 31 May.

The officer was on foot patrol when he spotted Hall, who he knew was wanted by police for enquiries into outstanding crimes.

As he attempted to arrest the 30-year-old, he was hit in the face. Hall claimed he did it because the officer ‘smiled’ at him.

The officer was taken to hospital where he was treated for a split lip and required stitches.

Video footage of his arrest can be viewed on our YouTube channel.

Hall was searched and officers found a large kitchen knife concealed in his trousers along with multiple wraps of cocaine, cannabis and a mobile phone.

At Peterborough Crown Court yesterday (30 June), Hall was sentenced to three years and six months in prison after previously pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm without intent, possession of a knife in a public place, possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of cannabis and possession of class C drugs.

Detective Constable Joanna MacKenzie, who investigated, said: “This incident highlights the very real dangers our officers face every day. When our officers recognised Hall as being wanted and attempted to make an arrest, one was violently assaulted and it was later revealed he was carrying a knife.

“Thankfully the officer was not seriously injured but this could have ended very differently. No one should face violence simply for doing their job, especially those working to keep our communities safe. We hope this sends a clear message that assaults on police officers will not be tolerated.”