Man Jailed for Spitting at Nurse During Pandemic
A Merseyside man has been locked up for six months after spitting at a nurse inside Arrowe Park Hospital’s Emergency Department.
Spitting Assault Sparks Immediate Prison Term
David Newton, 50, from Liscard, spat and coughed at the nurse in the early hours of April 2, 2020. The nurse had just returned from her break and was monitoring Newton’s heart rate when he launched the attack, calling himself ‘Michael Collins’ at the time.
When the nurse asked Newton to stop spitting, he grew aggressive, verbally abusing her and kicking out. Newton then jumped off the trolley, kicking chairs and a bin while continuing to spit in her direction. The nurse was not wearing any protective gear and was uncertain if Newton had any infectious diseases.
Security and Police Called as Chaos Unfolds
- Hospital security and police were called to control Newton.
- He was forcibly removed while still kicking out.
- Newton also attacked security guards and police officers during his arrest.
Newton pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker at Wirral Magistrates’ Court on April 3 and was immediately sentenced to six months in prison. He was also ordered to pay £300 compensation.
CPS Condemns ‘Deplorable’ Pandemic Attack
“This behaviour is totally unacceptable at any time, but during the coronavirus pandemic, it is even more dangerous,” said Alan Currums of CPS Mersey-Cheshire. “Mr Newton had no consideration for the distress or potential health risks to an NHS worker. The nurse said she was already worried about coming to work amid the pandemic, and being spat at only made it worse. “District Judge James Clarke made sure Newton was behind bars within hours. This sort of abuse will never be tolerated, especially now.” “The CPS will continue working with police to prosecute those attacking frontline workers.”
