A MAN has been jailed after he admitted assaulting a PCSO.

Nathan James Hobbs, 29, of St Vincent Road, Gosport, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two weeks in prison for theft of a bike, and two thefts from shops.

Investigating officer PC Fran Vasko said: “A PCSO in Gosport had detained Hobbs who was wanted for theft on Tuesday 7 August. Hobbs pulled away with such force while she was using her radio to call for assistance that he broke her middle finger.

"Later in custody Hobbs also admitted the theft of a bicycle and two shoplifting offences.

"Policing does come with an element of risk, the nature of the role is that we move towards danger rather than away from it.

"However, a direct assault on any officer is unacceptable. This sentence sends a clear message from the court that this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated and I hope that it provides some re-assurance to the PCSO involved."

Hobbs was jailed for six months at Portsmouth Crown Court.