Gravesend man who was first in Kent charged with breaking lockdown rules will face trial
12:15, 18 June 2020
updated: 16:09, 19 June 2020
The first person in Kent to be charged with breaking coronavirus lockdown rules has appeared in court.
Jagjit Sidhu was arrested on April 21 near a pharmacy in Milton Road, Gravesend, accused of contravening a requirement as to restriction of movement during the emergency period and failing to return home when asked.
It's alleged the 58-year-old, of Harmer Street, Gravesend, ignored advice from police to follow national guidance on lockdown and return home.
Appearing at Medway Magistrates' Court yesterday Sidhu pleaded not guilty to the two charges, as well as an additional charge of being drunk and disorderly.
Wearing a bright orange shirt and blue jeans he claimed he was "being targeted" by the two officers who arrested him and had done nothing wrong as he was "going to the chemist after booking a visiting slot".
He will face trial at Maidstone Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, September 8, and was given unconditional bail.
Speaking at the time of the incident Chief Inspector Neil Loudon said: "This is the first charge which has been issued by the force in connection with breaching Covid-19 legislation.
"This is a challenging time for police officers as it is for everyone..."
"Our officers work hard to engage those going against the instructions, explaining why they are necessary and encouraging them to comply, with enforcement being used only as a last resort.
"This is a challenging time for police officers as it is for everyone, and we urge people to continue to follow the guidance issued by government."
