Man admits to spitting at police officer

A man who admitted spitting in a police officer’s face, repeatedly stepping out in front of motorists, possessing a class C drug and breaching the peace has been remanded in custody.

Martin Macdonald, 43, of Robertson Lane, Lerwick, appeared at Lerwick Sheriff Court today, admitting the offences which all happened while he was on bail.

He admitted to behaving in a disorderly manner on 9th August, repeatedly walking into the road at the town’s Lochside in front of oncoming vehicles, causing motorists to take evasive action to avoid a collision, and committing a breach of the peace.

The same day at Harbour Street in Lerwick he was stopped by police officers and found to have 30 diazepam tablets in his possession.

Macdonald had been kept in custody overnight and despite having been given three meals he demanded more food.

Procurator fiscal Duncan MacKenzie said that following investigations there seemed to be no issues with Macdonald’s mental health; rather there were issues with his abuse of controlled substances.

Macdonald was “clearly under the influence” of controlled drugs when walking in front of the vehicles, Mr MacKenzie said.

A female police officer spoke to Macdonald in “a polite and courteous” manner while in custody but he spat at her “full in the face” and some of it went on to her body armour.

The police constable then had “the unpleasant task” of going to hospital “to see if any infection had been transmitted”, Mr MacKenzie said.

Macdonald also pleaded guilty to breaching the peace on 27th December last year by demanding entry to a property at St Magnus Street, Lerwick, and repeatedly punching and kicking the door.

This was also while on bail. When police arrived they found Macdonald crouching down behind a car.

Defence agent Tommy Allan said there was some “ongoing psychiatric involvement” and moved for bail. He said Macdonald was ashamed of his actions.

“Clearly there is a concern about his drug use but that is something he is wanting to address with help,” Mr Allan said.

But sheriff Philip Mann refused bail and deferred sentence until 14th September for background reports.

“I will be looking at every available option because you have got a bit of a record,” the sheriff said.

“The accumulation of these offences brings you into very serious territory. A custodial sentence is very much in prospect.”