Compensation to officers who were spat at

Magistrates told a woman who spat at officers after she was arrested for being drunk and disorderly that she was lucky to escape jail.
Wigan and Leigh CourthouseWigan and Leigh Courthouse
Wigan and Leigh Courthouse

Wigan Magistrates Court heard how Danusha Martin, of Christopher Street, Lower Ince, was arrested after officers were called to reports of fighting in Wigan town centre on March 18 at around 12.30pm.

The court was told that when they found the 38-year-old on Standishgate she was clearly drunk and was using foul language. They asked her to leave the area and she did. But a short time later they were called to further reports of fighting and found that Martin hadn’t gone far and was shouting expletives at members of the public.

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Steve Woodman, prosecuting, said: “They arrested her for being drunk and disorderly. While in custody she spat at a constable and was placed in a cell.

“A civilian officer had cause to attend the cell and Miss Martin spat at her as well. The crown is seeking compensation for the officers who were just doing their duty. The offences were committed while Miss Martin was subject to a 12-month conditional discharge from Manchester and Salford Magistrates for a drunk and disorderly. This was on March 12 and within less than a week she was out and about again and has committed a similar offence.”

The court heard that Martin had been a drug addict but had overcome that addiction although she tended to drink when she was upset.

The magistrates said: “You are lucky not to be going to prison. You have asked for one more chance. Make sure this one works.”

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Martin was given a nine-month community order with a six month alcohol programme, a 20 day rehabilitation requirement and a £50 fine. She was also told to pay £75 compensation to each of the officers, £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.

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