A bare-chested man allegedly bit and kicked police officers after “going mad” on a Co Down street, the High Court heard today.
Prosecutors claimed Andrew Elliott poses a danger to members of the force and the general public due to his level of aggression.
The 20-year-old, of no fixed address, is charged with four counts of assault on police over the incident on Boxing Day. He is further accused of disorderly behaviour, criminal damage and common assault on a female resident at his hostel accommodation in Bangor.
During a bail application it was claimed that Elliott spat the female resident's face before leaving the premises. Crown lawyer Breige Gilmore said police called to the scene were told he was outside and “going mad”.
When Elliott was located in the Queen’s Parade area of Bangor he was shirtless, shouting and swearing, the court heard. He allegedly swung out at police who were forced to apply handcuffs and leg restraints.
“Two officers were kicked, one was spat on, hit in the face and bit on the leg,” Ms Gilmore contended. A police colleague was allegedly kicked to the leg several times, the court heard.
Elliott was said to have continued spitting on officers and over a cell van as he was taken into custody. Mrs Justice Keegan was told he has Type 1 diabetes, as well as drug and alcohol issues. “He’s not managing his own condition, he’s a danger to himself,” Ms Gilmore argued.
“His lifestyle is somewhat chaotic and he’s a danger to the public, including police officers.”
Richard McConkey, defending, insisted Elliott would receive better support at the hostel, where staff were willing to take him back. Granting bail to that accommodation, the judge told the accused he needs to deal with his diabetes and behaviour towards people trying to help.
She warned: “Otherwise he’s not getting any more chances.”
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