POLICE officer were bitten, punched and kicked after being called to a domestic incident.

It happened at a property in Belk Street, Hartlepool on Wednesday.

After arriving at the property, officers tried to escort a man out, when one was punched in the face and another kicked and bitten.

Superintendent Sharon Cooney said: “Police put their lives at risk every day by protecting members of the public, and especially more so now with the crisis surrounding coronavirus.

“Attacking our officers whilst they are carrying out their duties is absolutely disgraceful.

"Police are under enough pressure keeping the people living in our communities safe without being assaulted. “Officers are continuing to work as normal whilst a majority of people are told to stay home to keep safe and police shouldn’t have to deal with the risk of being attacked whilst they are working.

“The force will not tolerate this behaviour under any circumstances and I want to make it clear that you will be arrested if you are caught assaulting or abusing any of our officers.”

A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of two counts of assaulting an emergency worker, affray and criminal damage and he remains in custody.

Chief Constable Richard Lewis has released a direct message to those affected by domestic abuse.

He said: I’ve already made clear that protecting victims of domestic abuse is my priority and this will continue.

“We recognise that many people are fearful that the fight against the COVID-19 virus will mean they are spending more time with their abuser.

“Worries about employment and health concerns will also help to create a more pressurised environment at home, which may make many people even more fearful for their safety.

“I want to reassure those people that we are still here to protect you. If you experience any form of abuse or violence we will assist.

“If leaving the house will keep you safer that is the right thing to do. If an officer speaks to you about this please have the confidence to tell them it’s because of domestic abuse and we are ready to help you.”

As the commissioner of victim services in Cleveland, Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger has personally contacted every one of the domestic abuse agencies he funds to ensure they are able to continue supporting victims during the crisis.

He said: “Support services provide a lifeline to victims of domestic abuse, who can feel trapped, controlled and hunted by their abusers.

“I’m pleased that the selfless support workers who carry out this work were recently recognised as key workers and will be able to carry on providing vital services to those most in need. My office is committed to providing whatever support is necessary to ensure they can continue to operate the best they can, whilst adhering to Government advice of isolation and social distancing.

“My message to victims is that support services are still operating, virus or not. Please don’t hesitate to contact them, or the police, for help.”

To report abuse or violence call 101 and in an emergency call 999.

If you’ve called 999 but cannot speak you can cough or dial 55 once the call is connected and operators are trained to know this means you need assistance.