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15
May
Man admits spitting at police officers in Jennyfields
A Harrogate man has admitted spitting at two police officers.
Ryan Keillar, 25, of Jenny Field Drive, appeared in Harrogate Magistrates Court today (May 15) where he pleaded guilty to assaulting two police constables.
Mel Ibbotson, prosecuting, told the court that North Yorkshire Police officers were called to an address in Jennyfields on April 30 at midnight.
Ms Ibbotson said police found two males at the property and glass smashed and dirt thrown on the walls.
She said:
The older male was found on top of the younger male, the defendant, who was screaming and shouting.
Officers got hold of Keillar, who began being aggressive with police. One of the named officers said the defendant began spitting at him, the court heard.
Ms Ibbotson said:
One of the officers said spitting is the most disgusting thing someone can do. He said ‘I would rather be punched in the face than spat at.’
The prosecution added that Keillar then spat at a second officer while in the back of the police car.
Ms Ibbotson said that the defendant had been out drinking with friends on the night of the incident.
Brian Nuttney, defending, told the court that the 25-year-old had plead guilty at the first opportunity.
He added that Keillar was remorseful and could not recollect the incident.
Mr Nuttney said:
He is very remorseful and was horrified at what he saw [on police bodycam footage]. He has no real recollection of matters.
Mr Nuttney added that Keillar was neurodivergent and suffers from anxiety. He said the defendant was of "previous good character".
Magistrates adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report to be written. Keillar will appear again at Harrogate Magistrates Court on July 10.
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