Southampton man jailed for assaulting police officer during arrest attempt

A 33 year old man from Southampton has been jailed for 21 months after violently assaulting a police officer who was attempting to arrest him.

Blaine Robert Latta, of Spring Road, was sentenced today (Thursday 13 November) at Southampton Crown Court after pleading guilty to assaulting a person thereby occasioning them actual bodily harm.

The incident occurred on Wednesday 1 October when PC George Arnott was carrying out a patrol near The Avenue in Southampton. During his patrol, PC Arnott spotted Latta and recognised him as being wanted on recall to prison.

As the officer attempted to detain him, Latta resisted arrest, punching PC Arnott in the face and causing him to fall to the ground. Latta then tried to run away, but additional officers arrived quickly and, following a short foot chase, managed to detain and arrest him.

PC Arnott sustained a black eye and a cut above his eye that required hospital treatment and stitches.

Following the sentencing, Neighbourhood Enforcement Team Sergeant Andrew Venning praised PC Arnott’s bravery and professionalism.

He said:

“I want to commend George for his outstanding professionalism and resilience in what was a frightening and volatile situation. Despite being assaulted, he remained determined to do everything he could to prevent Latta from escaping and causing further harm.”

Sgt Venning emphasised that violence towards police officers would not be tolerated, adding:

“We take assaults on officers very seriously, and this case sends out a strong message that those who carry out such attacks will not get away with them. The sentence handed down shows the courts are treating this with the seriousness it deserves.”

He also thanked the public and other officers for their role in ensuring Latta’s conviction.

“My thanks goes out to the member of the public who recorded the incident, which was instrumental in securing this conviction. This was a particularly nasty assault, and I am glad the sentence reflects the severity of the offence.

“The swift arrival and action of the supporting officers was also critical in bringing Latta into custody. Their teamwork and commitment ensured that a wanted and dangerous individual is now where he belongs – in jail.”

Latta will serve 21 months in prison for the assault.