A violent incident in Tredegar, Wales, led to a man named Benjamin Plimmer, 36, threatening to break a police officer’s neck after placing him in a chokehold. The chaos ensued when Plimmer broke a window at his former partner’s home, prompting a call to the police. As officers arrived at the scene, they found Plimmer lying in the bushes in his ex-partner’s garden.
When the officer approached Plimmer, he informed him of his impending arrest and attempted to handcuff him. However, Plimmer reacted aggressively by punching the officer in the head with a closed fist. A scuffle ensued, and Plimmer wrapped his bloody arms around the officer’s throat, refusing to let go. Despite attempts by a colleague to intervene, Plimmer continued to threaten the officer, stating, “I’ll break his f****** neck.”
Even when pepper spray was used, Plimmer maintained his grip on the officer until additional colleagues arrived to assist in releasing him. Following his apprehension and handcuffing, Plimmer persisted in resisting arrest and had to be carefully removed by dismantling a fence. Throughout the ordeal, he hurled abusive language at the officers.
In court, it was revealed that Plimmer, of Scwrfa Road, Tredegar, had a history of violent convictions. Despite claiming to have no recollection of the assault due to alcohol consumption, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer and causing criminal damage. In mitigation, it was mentioned that Plimmer’s actions were influenced by alcohol but that he had since refrained from drinking during his time in prison.
During sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, Recorder Jonathan Rees KC emphasised the importance of protecting officers carrying out their duties and sentenced Plimmer to 12 months in prison, with a requirement to serve half the term in custody and the remainder on licence. Gwent Police opted not to provide a custody picture of Plimmer to avoid further impact on the victim.
The harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and highlights the need to ensure their safety and wellbeing while upholding the law.
This incident underscores the dangers and challenges faced by police officers in the course of their duty, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding their safety and well-being. The sentencing decision sends a strong message regarding the consequences of assaulting law enforcement officials and the need to respect those who serve and protect our communities.