by Andrew Carey
A 27-year-old Tipperary man, who spat in the face of three Limerick prison officers, has been told to complete 160 hours community service or face a return to jail.
George Hackett, of Monakeeba, Thurles, pleaded guilty to assaulting the officers by spitting at them on February 24 last.
Limerick District Court heard that as Hackett was being transferred to an isolation cell in at Limerick prison, he spat in the mouth of one of the officers while two other officers were hit by spit on their faces and eyes.
Inspector Dermot O’Connor told the court that Hackett was being moved for his own safety when the incident happened.
Judge Eugene O’Kelly described Hackett’s actions as “very disgusting and dangerous behaviour”.
Defence solicitor John Devane said that his client, who had 165 previous convictions, was very apologetic and regretted what happened.
A positive probation report had been presented the court on behalf of the defendant and Judge O’Kelly adjourned the case until March 25 for the completion of a community service order.
