Coronavirus: Castleford man spat on Poundland staff and police Published duration 17 April Related Topics Coronavirus pandemic

image copyright Google image caption Darren Swain spat at police and shop workers at a Poundland store in Castleford

A man who spat at shop workers and police after he was prevented from queue-jumping at a Poundland store has been jailed.

Darren Swain became abusive to staff who were enforcing social distancing rules at the shop in Castleford, West Yorkshire, on 14 April.

When staff stopped him entering the shop he "coughed theatrically into the air close to them," the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said.

He was jailed for six months.

'Gargled and spat'

A CPS spokeswoman said the assault happened as staff were allowing only a restricted number into the store at a time to ensure social distancing.

"Swain attempted to jump the queue and, when prevented by staff, coughed theatrically into the air close to them and to nearby members of the public.

"He then gargled and spat in the direction of a female staff member, and laughed. When police officers arrived at the scene, he spat at them also."

The 57-year-old, of Victoria Street, Castleford, admitted common assault, as well as common assault on emergency workers, at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Thursday.

Gerry Wareham, from the CPS, said Swain's behaviour was "disgusting and dangerous".