Slap on taxi driver was prompted by spittlehttp://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news ... y-spittle/A YOUNG man who slapped a taxi driver in the face claimed his victim spat at him.Swindon Magistrates’ Court heard Kyle Rigley, was going through a difficult period in his life when the attack happened at Regent Street, Swindon, in April.
His partner had suffered a miscarriage. The 25-year-old said he didn’t normally drink but had been drunk when he attacked, telling police it was all a blur.
Prosecutor Pauline Lambert said the open-handed slap on taxi driver Edson de Resende had been captured on CCTV, but acknowledged it had left no visible mark.
Rigley, of Selwood Close, disputed the limited prosecution account of the attack. Representing himself from the dock, he said: “Back in the interview the tape didn’t quite clearly show what happened. He [the taxi driver] actually spat in my face and then I gave an open palm push away from my face.”
He was not trying to justify his actions, he said, but added: “I believe if someone spits in your face it’s just a reaction.”
Rigley suffered from anxiety and PTSD, the court heard. He was already subject to a previous community order when the attack happened. A requirement to complete unpaid work was being struck from that order due to his health issues.
Magistrates gave Rigley a 12 month community order, with 15 rehabilitation days. He must pay £50 compensation to the driver.
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