Worcester woman who bit police officer's hand is fined by magistrates

Bethany Liquorish appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court on Thursday, (October 20). 

The 20-year-old admitted assault by beating of an emergency worker when the charge was put to her by the court clerk. 

Mark Hambling, prosecuting, said Liquorish was in custody and police tried to calm her down as she was distraught. 

COURT: Bethany Liquorish leaving Worcester Magistrates Court. Picture: Sam Greenway/Newsquest (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

The prosecutor said among the officers was PC Erin Fairless. 

"This young lady bites one on her hands," Mr Hambling said. 

"She feels a short pain in her hand. 

"The gloves (the officer was wearing at the time) protect her skin from breaking.

"It is not the nicest offence to do.

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"Fortunately for this lady it could have been worse."

Liquorish, of Augusta Drive, Worcester, and formerly of Conway, Worcester, had no previous convictions, Mr Hambling said.

He added the prosecution was making no request for compensation. 

Jo Outhwaite, defending, said: "She had been out drinking and was heavily intoxicated. 

"The friend (she was out with) turned against her."

The solicitor said the friend had told police Liquorish had assaulted her, leading to her arrest and being taken to custody. 

COURT: Bethany Liquorish appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court

But when police investigated it was found the complainant had caused injuries to herself proving Liquorish hadn't assaulted her, Mrs Outwaite said.

The solicitor said Liquorish suffered mental health issues which, coupled with the circumstances of her arrest, explained why she had been distraught in custody. 

"She bit the palm of the hand," the solicitor said. 

"The next morning there was full remorse shown."

Mrs Outwaite added it wasn't a case where probation services were needed as Liquorish had taken steps to address her issues, seeing her GP and getting counselling. 

Magistrates tell Bethany Liquorish 'police officers are entitled to go to work and not be assaulted'

Jayne Burton, chairman of the magistrates bench, told Liquorish they were going to fine her £120. 

Liquorish was ordered to pay £50 compensation to the officer. 

The chairman said: "We have ordered compensation be paid because people are entitled to go to work and not be beaten."

Liquorish was told to pay costs of £185 and victim surcharge of £48. 

Magistrates agreed the total, £403, should be deducted from Liquorish's benefits.