Man jailed for brutal assault on Gwent Police officer

A man who attacked a police officer in broad daylight causing him grievous bodily harm has been jailed at Cardiff Crown Court.

Richard Nodwell, 37, was spoken to by PC Nathan Attwell who was on duty on 20 December 2023. The officer was responding to a 999 call in the Cwmbrân area.

Nodwell became increasingly agitated during the conversation and attacked the officer, punching him multiple times to the face before pushing him to the ground.

Nodwell continued the assault, using both fists to punch the officer to the face and head numerous times, and then kicked him before walking off.

When other officers arrived and arrested Nodwell, he continued to be aggressive, assaulting one officer by spitting on his hand and biting another’s boot. 

Ryan Randall of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “This is one of the most shocking attacks on a police officer I have seen.

“Nodwell carried out this sickening act of violence on a uniformed officer conducting his lawful duties, showing a complete disregard for his authority.

“Any assault or abuse of an emergency worker is viewed extremely seriously by the CPS.

“Emergency workers are there to help the public and should be able to do so safely and without fear.

“We will continue to work with our partners in the criminal justice system, using the full weight of the law, to protect emergency workers.”

Richard Nodwell was sentenced to six years and four months’ imprisonment with an extended licence period of three years on 1 April 2025 at Cardiff Crown Court.