Colin James Whitby: Geraldton man given bail after allegedly spitting at police officer’s face

A man who allegedly spat on a police officer’s face, forcing him to go to hospital to be tested, has appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court.

On April 28 at 6.45pm, Colin James Whitby, 42, was arrested after alleged disorderly behaviour at a fuel station in Tarcoola Beach.

After being placed in handcuffs and guided to a police vehicle, Mr Whitby is alleged to have lunged at an officer and spat in his face while swearing at him.

Saliva entered the officer’s mouth and nose and came into contact with his right eye, according to police prosecutor Sergeant Paul Burkinshaw.

The officer had to go to Geraldton Health Campus after the incident to be tested for possible diseases.

Mr Whitby appeared in court on Thursday from custody on one charge of assaulting a public officer as well as disorderly behaviour in public and in a police station.

He was granted bail, although it was unclear if he could afford his $1000 surety.

He will next appear in court on May 15.