A man has been jailed after attempting to bite a police officer during an incident in Derry on St Stephen’s Day.
The court heard that the incident took place on 26 December, when officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) were dealing with a disturbance in the city.
Police were called to the scene following reports of disorderly behaviour, where they encountered the defendant acting aggressively.
During the incident, officers attempted to restrain the man after he became confrontational.
The court was told that while officers were attempting to control the situation, the man lashed out and tried to bite one of the police officers.
The officer avoided injury, but the behaviour was described in court as dangerous and unacceptable.
Prosecutors said the defendant’s actions posed a serious risk to officers who were carrying out their duties.
The case was heard before Derry Magistrates’ Court, where the judge considered the circumstances of the incident.
During the hearing, the court was told that the man had behaved aggressively towards police and had resisted their attempts to restrain him.
Following the proceedings, the judge imposed a custodial sentence, ordering that the defendant be jailed for his actions.
Assaulting emergency workers, including police officers, is treated seriously by the courts.
The incident highlights the risks officers can face while responding to disturbances and maintaining public order.
Police have repeatedly warned that aggressive behaviour towards emergency services will be dealt with through the courts.
The man was taken into custody following the court’s decision.
Source: https://www.derryjournal.com/news/people/man-who-tried-to-bite-police-officer-in-derry-on-st-stephens-day-jailed-5629806
