CPS warns those who deliberately cough at essential workers WILL be prosecuted
It comes after an increasing number of reports in recent days as the coronavirus outbreak continues.
Anyone using coronavirus to threaten emergency and essential workers could face serious criminal charges.
It's after reports in of police, shop workers and vulnerable groups being deliberately coughed at by people claiming to have the disease.
The Crown Prosecution Service has now warned the behaviour is illegal and assaults specifically against emergency workers are punishable by up to two years in prison.
"this is not only vile but illegal"
Coughs directed as a threat at other key workers or members of the public could be charged as common assault.
Max Hill QC, Director of Public Prosecutions, said: “Emergency workers are more essential than ever as society comes together to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
“I am therefore appalled by reports of police officers and other frontline workers being deliberately coughed at by people claiming to have Covid-19.
“Let me be very clear: this is a crime and needs to stop. The CPS stands behind emergency and essential workers and will not hesitate to prosecute anybody who threatens them as they go about their vital duties.”
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