Swansea man who spat at paramedic jailed

On Friday, May 10, 2024, a paramedic was attempting to treat Nigel Francis, 58 from Blaenymaes when he became aggressive. The incident happened in the Ravenhill area of Swansea.

In the clip below, Francis is seen being led to a police van in handcuffs when he spits in paramedic’s face.

He pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

Francis was sentenced to eight months in prison and ordered to pay £50 compensation to the paramedic at Swansea Magistrates’ Court, on Tuesday February 25, 2025.

Police Sergeant John Hughes said:

“Nobody should expect to be assaulted – either physically or verbally – when they go to work, whether you work for the emergency services or otherwise.
“This behaviour makes our roles more challenging, and we will take firm action against those responsible.”

Lee Brooks, Executive Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said:

“Any form of assault is unacceptable, but spitting in particular is downright depraved.
“Jonathan was there to help this man, and this was the ultimate disrespect.
“The fact that Jonathan continued to deliver care for him is frankly remarkable.
“We will always seek prosecution for those who harm our people, and sentences should reflect the devastating and long-term impact that assault has on our staff and volunteers.”