Sign me up for news alerts

A drunk woman who headbutted an off-duty police officer while high on cocaine has walked free from court.

Kathryn Sims, 26, left PC Jessica Arnold needing dental treatment after attacking her at a bus stop in Whitstable.

However, she escaped with a conditional discharge after admitting the assault at Margate Magistrates’ Court.

The two men were jailed for 10 and six years respectively. Stock picture

The court was told how Sims, of The Green, Chartham, had been on a bus to Whitstable with PC Arnold and a number of other off-duty officers on December 21.

Following what Sims claimed was a verbal spat, she headbutted the officer as they got off the bus at the stop near the Long Reach pub.

Sims was identified as the attacker by CCTV on the bus and a mobile phone video clip.

Her victim suffered a chipped tooth and bruising to her left eye socket and cheek.

Defending Sims, Suzanne Fewins said the attack had happened two days after Sims’s boyfriend had been rushed to hospital after taking an overdose.

“She was obviously upset and became intoxicated after having drinks with her friends,” she said.

“On the bus to Whitstable it was her perception that the group of officers were laughing and banging into the back of her seat and she felt intimidated at some parts of the journey.

“She became involved in a verbal altercation with the group and when she and three officers got off the bus, the incident occurred.

“She understands her actions were completely unacceptable and feels very remorseful and bad for the victim.”

Sims’ partner died five days after the assault.

Her solicitor said she had suffered alcohol and drug addiction in the past but was “showing a lot of mental strength” in addressing her issues.

Chairman of the bench Gill Monk said: “We have listened to your problems and quite clearly your actions were fuelled by drink and drugs.

“But with weekly drug tests and your commitment to getting back on the straight and narrow we would not like to interrupt your good progress.

“We therefore hope that a conditional discharge and costs will be sufficient motivation for you to continue on the right path.”

Sims was ordered to pay PC Arnold £265 compensation.