Man sentenced after attacking police officer amid unrest in central London

A man who swore at a police officer before kicking him amid disorder in central London has been sentenced.

Ozzie Cush, 20, lashed out at officers responding to widespread disorder in Westminster on Wednesday 31 July.

Officers with the Metropolitan Police were walking along Whitehall in the direction of Trafalgar Square informing demonstrators that a Dispersal Order was in force and encouraging people to leave the area.

Taking exception to their presence, Cush was recorded walking across the path of the officers before sticking his middle finger towards an officer and then kicking him.

He was promptly arrested.

Cush claimed in his police interview he was not part of the protesting and that he kicked out after he felt threatened by the approaching police officers.

However, body worn video of the incident proved it was in fact Cush who moved towards the officers and attacked them unprovoked.

Cush pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 8 August to one count of assault by beating of an emergency worker, where he was remanded into custody.

He was today sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to 46 weeks' custody in a Young Offender Institution.

Adele Kelly, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor with CPS London North, said: “This was a wholly unprovoked attack by a young man who had absolutely no reason to conduct himself in the way that he did.

“These officers were working to ensure the safety of all those present and instead were met with disgraceful resistance.

“For whatever reason, Ozzie Cush decided to attack an individual for simply doing their job – a decision he can now mull over in custody.

“We hope this, and other sentences passed recently, remind all those considering using violence to demonstrate that you will face the full consequences.”

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for the Metropolitan Police, Andy Valentine, said: “The actions of this individual were reprehensible and I am pleased he has been dealt with swiftly.

“Sadly our officers face abuse and violence daily but remain undeterred from their mission to keep Londoners safe.

“Cush must now face the consequences of his actions and we remain absolutely determined to tackle anyone responsible for similar violence.”