Man spat on officer after being refused entry to Rangers title party

Stephen Devine launched spittle at constable Gary Burns' face in North Hanover Street on May 15, 2021.

Man spat on officer after being refused entry to Rangers title party Website

A man who was stopped from entering a Rangers title party in Glasgow city centre spat on a police officer.

Stephen Devine launched spittle at constable Gary Burns’ face in North Hanover Street on May 15, 2021.

The 32-year-old, of Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, had earlier attempted to cut through a police cordon established near George Square.

On Friday, Devine pled guilty at Glasgow Sheriff Court to assaulting PC Burns.

The court heard around 12pm Rangers fans had gathered at George Square to celebrate the club’s Scottish Premiership win.

The afternoon became “more volatile and behaviour escalated in the streets”.

Officers entered George Square and formed a cordon with PC Burns being involved.

Prosecutor Alasdair Knox said: “Devine was part of a large group next to the cordon and he attempted to get through.

“He was told by PC Burns several times to leave.

“Devine was angry he was not allowed in George Square and he spat in the face of PC Burns who was wearing a face mask so it only landed on his cheek.”

Devine was arrested but he continued to shout at officers.

Paul Sweeney, defending, will make his plea in mitigation at next month’s sentencing.

Sheriff Andrew Cubie said: “I will continue your bail but don’t make any assumptions about that.

“The charge you pled guilty to was cowardly, spitting on an officer carrying out his duties.

“Be in no doubt, all sentencing options remain open.”

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