Another alleged assault of a country cop has put society's treatment of police officers back in the spotlight and triggered renewed calls for politicians to do more to protect police.
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"The first six months of this year have seen a disturbing level of assaults as a consequence of our members simply going about their job, enforcing the law," NSW Police Association western region executive member Adrian Matthews said.
"We're told there are approximately 2,500 assaults on NSW frontline officers every year, equating to just below 50 a week," he said.
"These types of assaults aren't just a matter of physical injury - they also leave psychological scars and they have a direct impact on the family and friends of the police being attacked."
Mr Matthews said police want the government to change legislation so people who assault officers are forced to undergo mandatory infectious disease testing.
"The number of our members being bashed, bitten, spat upon, assaulted and injured in the line of duty has to be taken more seriously," he said.
Recent data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research revealed the number of assaults on police officers in the Dubbo region almost doubled during a 24 month period.
"I certainly hope that local community leaders, including politicians, lead the public debate in supporting and respecting the work the local police do," NSW Police Association President Tony King said.