Student spared jail after hurling stones at police

A student who threw stones and sticks at police and spat in an officer's face during last year's tuition fee riots has been spared jail.

Hanita Dadswell, 18, clashed with police in protests at Millbank in November. When she was detained she slipped out of her handcuffs and spat in the face of the arresting officer, Westminster magistrates heard.

In a police interview, Dadswell, of Maida Vale, insisted her behaviour had been "fine" because the officers were wearing helmets.

"She was hurling wooden sticks at the police lines," said Victoria Ojo, prosecuting. "She then began throwing missiles, which struck an officer on his head, but luckily he was wearing a helmet. She fully admitted spitting in the officer's face and said it was because she was angry."

Jude Lanchin, defending, said: "She is utterly remorseful and bewildered by her own behaviour. She is a young woman with a very bright future.
"She is highly intelligent and accepts she got caught up in the hysteria, adrenaline - whatever word may be appropriate."

Dadswell pleaded guilty to affray and was given a six-week sentence suspended for a year. District Judge Elizabeth Roscoe imposed a three-month 10pm to 5am curfew, saying her actions had been "unpleasant, rude, arrogant and outrageous".