A Birmingham man, David Bird, appeared before the court already intoxicated and subsequently assaulted a security guard at Birmingham Crown Court. Bird, 57, had stepped out for what he referred to as his ‘final drink before jail’ while awaiting his sentencing hearing on March 27.
After returning to the court later that day, Bird was visibly drunk, prompting security officers to ask him to leave on two occasions. Instead of complying fully, he pushed one officer in the chest, although no injury was caused, according to court reports.
Bird, of Tinkers Farm Road, pleaded guilty to common assault this week at Birmingham Magistrates' Court. Prosecutor Ms Pogorzelska detailed that Bird’s assault occurred while he was already on bail for an ABH charge and has a prior battery conviction from 2015. She emphasized that the assault was committed against someone providing a service, making the offense more serious.
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Defending counsel Mr Mirza explained that Bird had been waiting since early morning for his sentencing on a burglary charge, which was delayed until the afternoon. Believing he faced imprisonment, Bird left briefly to have his last drink. He expressed remorse and offered an apology to the security guard, which was accepted.
The Magistrates’ Court chair highlighted that Bird’s offense was aggravated due to his bail status and the fact that the victim was a public servant performing his duties. Bird was fined £275, comprising a £54 victim surcharge and £85 court costs. He was also warned that a collection order, potentially involving bailiffs, would be enforced if the fine remained unpaid.