Stephen Jackson admits Carlisle sneezing attacks Published duration 14 September 2015

image caption Stephen Jackson slapped or hit his victims when they took out tissues

A man who attacked five women for sneezing in the street has been warned he faces jail.

Stephen Jackson, 49, slapped or hit his victims over the head when they took out tissues to wipe their noses.

He said "don't sneeze in front of me" as he attacked each one, Carlisle Magistrates' Court heard.

Jackson, who the court heard had psychiatric problems, admitted four charges of assault by beating and one of common assault.

The defendant, of Dixon Court, Carlisle, was told he will be sentenced on 5 October.

He had denied two public order offences, including spitting at a baby, but was found guilty.

'Very upsetting'

Prosecutor Peter Kelly said the public order offences were "random incidents without any apparent logic".

The court heard that the baby's mother had been pushing her child in her pram in Carlisle on 3 February when Jackson put his foot on the pram.

Mr Kelly said: "She became aware of a man approaching, for no apparent reason he simply spits at the child in the pram.

"The spittle fortunately doesn't strike the baby because of the way the baby is protected by the carriage. It was obviously a very upsetting and distressing incident for her."

Sara Budniak, defending, said he had "a number of psychiatric problems" but was of previous good character.

District Judge Chalk said: "I have to tell you now I'm considering sending you to prison."

The case was adjourned for pre-sentence reports.