Samantha Hurley, 40, of Carnegie Crescent in St Helens, has been sentenced after she spat at police officers during an arrest and assaulted a woman.
Police were called to a report of an altercation in the Sutton area on the evening of Wednesday, September 23. Officers found Hurley with a metal object in the right cuff of her coat, and a metal spanner was seized.
Incident Details
It was reported that Hurley spat in a woman's face before struggling with officers and spitting at them, with her saliva landing on the hands and legs of both officers. She then tried to dig her nails into one of the officer's hands.
Hurley was charged with assault, drunk and disorderly behaviour, and two counts of assaulting a constable in the execution of their duty. She pleaded guilty to the offences at Liverpool Magistrates' Court.
Court Outcome
Appearing in court on November 4, she was handed a two-year criminal behaviour order. As part of the order, she is prohibited from being in possession of an open container of any alcohol in a public place in Merseyside.
Hurley was also sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months. She was made to sign a restraining order preventing her from contacting the victim via social media and is prohibited from entering Elizabeth Street.
Police Comment
Neighbourhood Inspector Doug Chadwick said: "Hurley displayed disgusting behaviour towards a member of the public and two of our officers that evening, and I’m pleased that she has taken responsibility by pleading guilty to all four charges.
"Thankfully, the officers did not suffer serious injuries, but this incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous situations our officers face daily in their commitment to keeping Merseyside safe.
"The Criminal Behaviour Order imposed by the court gives us additional powers to tackle further offending and protect the community. Violence towards police officers will never be tolerated, and those who choose to behave in this way should be aware that they will face the full force of the law."
To report a crime, contact Merseyside Police via social media on X or Facebook @MerPolCC, via the force's website, or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
