A FORMER prisoner has narrowly avoided a return to jail after he kicked a police officer and spat at her while in handcuffs.

The assault on PC Clarissa Cheeseborough occurred at Brecon Police Station on March 22 where Simon Drury had been taken following an arrest.

He complained his handcuffs were too tight and became increasingly aggressive towards officers, including PC Cheeseborough. He was confined to a cell and made to wear an anti-spit hood to prevent a further incident. Drury, 42, admitted assault on an emergency worker when appearing at Llandrindod Wells Magistrates Court on Wednesday, April 14.

Drury, of Sunningdale, Temple Drive, Llandrindod, also admitted failing to comply with the requirements of his post-sentence supervision by committing the assault – having been released from prison last June.

Prosecutor Stephen Davies said: “He was transported to Brecon on the afternoon and, once there, demanded his handcuffs be removed. He became increasingly aggressive and needed to be restrained and was taken to the floor by officers.

“He tried spitting at officers, including PC Jones, and kicked out at PC Cheeseborough, and spat at them, with some spittle landing close to her, on the floor.

“He was restrained and taken into a cell and was made to wear a spit hood. The officers said his behaviour was unacceptable, they were trying to speak to him in a calm manner, but he became non-compliant and increasingly aggressive.”

Acting for Drury, Owain Jones said: “For what it’s worth, the defendant is sorry for his actions. He doesn’t recall the kick, but admits it was reckless.

“He was irate as his handcuffs were too tight. He still has marks on his wrist. But he is sorry he harmed the officer, although he is not sure if there was any lasting injury she sustained.”

Mr Jones said Drury co-operated with police in interview and said his client is planning to move away from the Powys area and seek employment in Telford, where he has family.

Magistrates issued another prison sentence for Drury to serve, suspending an eight-week term for 12 months.

He must adhere to an eight-week curfew between 7pm-7am and pay compensation of £50 to PC Cheeseborough, as well as £85 costs and a £128 surcharge.