Man, 42, jailed for vicious assault on police officer

A Carlisle man was sentenced to more than two years imprisonment today for assaulting a police officer who asked him to move his car. Gary Roy White, aged 42, from Scalegate Road, Carlisle was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court today after he assaulted an on-duty police officer outside a takeaway on Botchergate, Carlisle, on 27 August 2012.

At 7pm on 27 August 2012, PC Mac Maguire was on duty in the Botchergate area, when he saw a vehicle parked on double yellow lines outside a takeaway shop. The driver, Gary White, took exception to PC Maguire’s advice and became abusive and aggressive towards him. Due to his behaviour, the officers told White that he was under arrest. White reacted by punching PC Maguire to the side of the head, causing him to stumble backwards.

The level of violence escalated after PC Maguire fell to the floor with White continuing his attack by punching and kicking the officer whilst he was on the floor. Several members of the public intervened and White was arrested by police officers who came to PC Maguire’s assistance.

PC Maguire was left with substantial cuts, bruising to his face and a back injury that caused him to be off work for five weeks.

Today, White was sentenced to two years and three months by Judge Batty who condemned White in his summing up. He stated that he had considered going above sentencing guidelines due to the severity of the assault.

Judge Batty made reference to the fact that the defendant was not put in a stressful situation by being asked to move his vehicle and that his subsequent conduct in broad day light in the middle of town in front of members of the public was deplorable and the sustained attack was “degrading” to the officer.

Judge Batty also recognised a member of the public who tried to assist PC Maguire and ordered £250 to be paid from public funds to him in recognition.

Superintendent Sean Robinson said: “White’s sustained and unprovoked assault on PC Maguire was the most vicious attack I have seen on a police officer in my 22 year policing career.

“Judge Batty’s robust comments and the sentence imposed today highlights exactly how seriously these crimes are taken. It sends a clear and strong message that this type of behaviour is not tolerated and that people who believe they are above the law will be severely punished.

“PC Maguire is a well-respected and exemplary officer who serves the community of Carlisle. He has been a police officer for 19 years and before this incident, PC Maguire had not taken a day off sick in 16 years. He has always maintained high standards and commitment to the people of Cumbria and we are supporting him as he returns back to work this week.

“I am pleased that White has received the sentence he deserves.”