Lewes parking warden spat at and attacked by Roger Kemp

Roger Kemp attacked Barry Verrall out on patrol in Lewes during the height of the coronavirus lockdown.

The 51-year-old lout spat at Mr Verrall during the incident, Hastings Magistrates’ Court heard.

The court was told it happened on January 11 this year, and East Sussex County Council is concerned about a rising number of attacks on its staff.

Kemp was sentenced to a 12-week suspended prison sentence, and was put under curfew in the afternoons for three months.

Court documents show Kemp admitted assault, and said the incident involved “spitting at a traffic warden during the Covid-19 pandemic”.

Hastings Magistrates Court

The court noted that Kemp had made “use of a car as a weapon” during the incident.

It is not known if Mr Verrall was seriously injured as a result of the attack.

East Sussex County Council’s lead member for transport Cllr Claire Dowling said: “We know that the majority of motorists treat parking enforcement officers with respect and appreciate that they have a job to do.

“Unfortunately, a minority of people believe it’s ok to verbally and physically assault officers who are trying to keep the county’s roads clear and safe, and that is just not acceptable.”

Cllr Claire Dowling has condemned attacks on parking wardens

“There is absolutely no excuse for this kind of behaviour. If you don’t want to be asked to move your vehicle or get a fine, don’t park in breach of clearly marked restrictions – it is that simple.”

The authority said that sadly there has been a rise in attacks in May.

Read more on this story: 'You dread someone calling out to you' - wardens speak out over attacks

“We are again calling on motorists to treat civil parking enforcement officers with respect as they go about their job in Lewes, Eastbourne, Hastings and Rother.

“A similar plea in January this year was followed by a reduction in incidents, including April where there was not a single attack.

“Sadly, in May alone there have been four serious incidents with one officer being pushed to the floor.

A parking warden was spat at and attacked in Lewes

“Civil enforcement officers play an important role in ensuring people park safely and sensibly, helping to reduce congestion and maintain traffic flow and access.”

Kemp, of Malling Street, Lewes, was ordered to pay £250 compensation to Mr Verrall after the hearing earlier this month.

He must also pay a £128 surcharge and £85 costs. All the money will be deducted from his benefits.

Magistrate John Ioannou put Kemp under curfew between 2pm and 8pm daily until August 13.

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