A Swindon man who used red ‘self-defence’ spray on three bouncers has been convicted.
Karl Taylor was ejected from a bar in Carlisle, Cumbria, after becoming aggressive – before attacking a trio of security guards.
The defendant, of Ferndale Road, pleaded guilty to three counts of assault by beating – and was sentenced at Swindon Magistrates’ Court today (Monday).
Keith Ballinger, prosecuting, said the 32-year-old pulled out a canister from his pocket and sprayed the bouncers who were removing him from the establishment.
They were hit with a stream of a red paint-like substance, which stained their skin. One security officer said the liquid went into his eye, causing some irritation.
In custody, he told police he carries the spray – a criminal identifier – for self-defence purposes because he is a “paranoid person”. He went on to apologise for his actions when he panicked.
Richard Williams, defending, said his client had recently been reunited with his biological mother in Carlisle – but she suddenly died, causing him to “go into a tailspin”.
He told the court that Taylor was using “alcohol as a crutch” and that “grief, alcohol and emotion” are not a good mix. The defendant is unemployed and claiming Universal Credit.
District Judge Joanna Dickens imposed a 15-month community order with 15 rehabilitation activity days, 12 mental health treatment requirement days and a six-month alcohol treatment requirement.
