Wheathampstead man fined after biting police officer’s hand
St Albans Magistrates Court - Credit: Archant
A 26 year old man bit a police officer’s hand after he was caught growing cannabis in his bedroom.
Ironically, police had come to George Coleman’s flat in Nurseries Road, Wheathampstead, on August 11 at his own request, after he reported “six men outside trying to kick the door in”.
Prosecutor Roseanne Smith told St Albans Magistrates’ Court on Friday, September 16 that instead of a gang, officers found just Coleman, raving in the street.
Suspecting drugs, they searched the flat and found five cannabis plants, but Coleman then became so agitated he needed to be restrained.
Coleman pleaded guilty in court to cultivating cannabis and assaulting a police officer.
Defending, Andy Hobdale said his client had not meant to hurt Pc Lisa Kimm, but had been suffering the effects of cocaine.
He said: “It was a panicky moment. It was a cry for help.”
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Since his arrest Coleman has been living in Lancing, West Sussex, with his aunt, an experienced professional drugs counsellor, and is being helped by her.
Mr Hobdale said: “He deeply regrets what happened that day.”
Presiding magistrate David Tabraham-Palmer told Coleman: “We accept you did not know what you were doing, but you have to accept responsibility.”
Coleman was fined £120, with £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.
