The vehicle was parked at Medway Hospital on Monday 22 April 2024 while officers were on duty inside when a man approached it and attempted to damage the front passenger door.

However, he was unsuccessful and proceeded to jump into the vehicle. He then jumped up and down several times and caused significant damage to the car’s bonnet, windscreen and roof.

The District Commander for Medway, Chief Inspector Garry Cook, said: ‘This was a mindless act of vandalism which caused a response vehicle to be out of commission which greatly impacts the service and members of the public who need a police response.

‘Without patrol vehicles officers cannot attend incidents and lives can be put unnecessarily at risk and we will relentlessly pursue and deal with people who commit such acts.’

Following the incident Stead Knapp, 28, of The Shoreway, St Mary’s Island, Chatham, was arrested and later charged with criminal damage.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 24 April where he pleaded guilty and was bailed. He is due to appear at the same court on Monday 5 August.