A "remorseful" prisoner hurled a cup of urine at a prison officer's face at HMP Deerbolt.
John Walker approached the officer in a room at the Barnard Castle prison and threw the contents of his cup onto him on December 7 last year.
The liquid, which was identified as urine from its smell and colour, made contact with the officer's face, near his mouth, and upper body.
Teesside Crown Court heard on Tuesday (June 30) how the incident may have been exacerbated by Walker taking illicit drugs, potentially spice.
After the urine was thrown on the officer, he shouted for backup, and further staff arrived to help. The 48-year-old then spent time in the segregation unit.
The court heard how Walker, who is currently serving a life sentence after being jailed for robbery in 2005, had behaved aggressively in the week following the incident.
The inmate, who has four convictions for 20 offences, was struggling with declining mental health, which included an attempt on his own life.
However, Judge Jo Kidd said Walker had made “significant improvements” both in the use of illicit drugs and his behaviour towards prison staff.
He is due to face a parole hearing on September 10, which will consider whether he can be transferred to a lower security prison.
Dan Wilberforce, mitigating, said Walker had attempted to engage in mediation with the prison officer following the incident, but that they did not wish to.
“He has a significant amount of remorse”, Mr Wilberforce said.
Read more
Police issue update on serious dog attack at lake that left woman in hospital
Seven prison officers in abuse probe dead as victims fear more will escape justice
'Kirklevington sparked my journey into hell. I was driven to the brink of suicide'
Walker has had no further convictions within the prison estate.
Ms Kidd sentenced Walker, who appeared on a video link from HMP Holme House in Stockton, to 18 months in prison. This will run alongside the sentence he is currently serving.
If you are in need of support you can contact the following:
- Samaritans are here to listen – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
- If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258
- SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58
Share