A man who threw ammonia in the face of a policeman on traffic patrol has been jailed for two years.

Michael Corbett pleaded guilty to charges of throwing a corrosive substance with intent to burn maim or disfigure and also to charges of destroying property of an unknown value when he appeared at Kingston Crown Court on Wednesday December 4.

The court heard the attack took place on York Place, Battersea on August 20 at 3pm. Corbett drove past the officer on a moped and hurled the ammonia in his face before riding off.

Exposure to low concentrations of ammonia in air or solution may produce rapid skin or eye irritation.

Higher concentrations of ammonia may cause severe injury and burns. Contact with concentrated ammonia solutions such as industrial cleaners may cause corrosive injury including skin burns, permanent eye damage or blindness.

It is understood the officer was wearing glasses which saved him from receiving serious injury.

Corbett, of Bagleys Lane, Fulham was given 20 months in jail for throwing the ammonia and an additional month for the damage of property.

He was also found to have in his possession CS spray which was confiscated and received an extra three months for this offence.

Chief Inspector Gary Fryer, Safer Transport Command, said: "This case highlights the courage and bravery officers have while conducting day to day policing and keeping Londoners safe.

"Fortunately the officer who was assaulted did not receive any serious injuries and I am pleased with this sentence, which demonstrates that assaults on police will not be tolerated."

 

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