Sunderland woman placed in a spit hood and leg restraints when she kicked off after drinking binge

A woman hit and knocked over two police officers – and spat in the face of one – when arrested for a breach of the peace at her home after a drinking binge.
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Kelly Imeson, 42, of Hewitt Avenue, Leechmere, Sunderland, had to be placed in a spit hood and leg restraints after failing to calm down.

And she continued to lash out on the way to a police station after being held by other officers and arrested, magistrates in South Tyneside heard.

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They were told Imeson fell into alcoholism and crime seven years ago.

South Tyneside Law Courts.  Picture by FRANK REID. South Tyneside Law Courts.  Picture by FRANK REID.
South Tyneside Law Courts. Picture by FRANK REID.

She apologised to the officers through her solicitor – and was ordered to pay them £100 compensation each.

Prosecutor Paul Anderson said: “Police were called to Hewitt Avenue, due to a report of difficulties there.

“Police attend and speak to Ms Imeson and it was clear that she was drunk and was agitated.

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“Because of her behaviour she is arrested for a breach of the peace. She becomes aggressive and violent.

“She kicks out at a female PC, hitting her in the stomach and causing her to fall backwards.

“She tries to bite the left wrist of another and spat on his vest and right cheek and hit him in the stomach. He fell backwards.”

Mr Anderson added: “Other officers grabbed hold of her, but she did not go quietly. A spit hood and leg restraints were applied.

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“She was taken to the police station but was still kicking out and spitting at officers.

“There was body-worn footage, but she was too distressed to watch it.”

The court heard Imeson has 13 previous convictions, including two against the person.

Greg Flaxen, defending, said: “She has shown genuine remorse and is willing to work with third parties. This is the best I’ve seen her, there is progress.”

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Imeson pleaded guilty to two charges of assault by beating of an emergency worker and one of causing harassment, alarm or distress.

Magistrates handed her a 24-month community order, with a requirement of 30 days of rehabilitation work with the Probation Service.

She must also complete 19 sessions of the Thinking Skills programme, and was made subject to a 30-day, 8pm to 8am electronic curfew.

There were no court costs.

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