A man awaiting a place in rehab who was ‘drunk and swearing’ attacked a female police officer at a Bath Travelodge after he found people in his room who were unknown to him.
Andrew James Barnfield, 35, of Hazel Grove, Radstock, Midsomer Norton, initially said "I'm not really sure to be honest" when asked a court how he wanted to plea.
The defendant then entered a guilty plea to assaulting a police constable when he appeared at Bath Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, March 19. But during his police interview, he said he didn’t believe what he had done constituted an assault.
The court heard that on Friday, November 8, 2024, officers attended the Travellodge in Bath at around 6.30pm. The court heard that Barnfield was drunk, swearing and not receptive to police.
The court then heard that the defendant attempted to grab a female officer's wrist, before later placing his right hand on her arm. Barnfield was then arrested. There were no injuries to the officer.
In his interview with the police, the court heard that the defendant mostly answered questions with "no comment". However, he did say that he blacked out and did not believe touching the officer constituted an assault.
The court heard that Barnfield was at the Travelodge that day awaiting a place at a rehab. He then found people in his room who were unknown to him.
Mitigating, Barnfield’s lawyer said that her client is in physical pain every day. She said he is neurodivergent, has migraines and self-medicates with alcohol. She told the court: "His panic- because of his neurodiversity - comes across as aggression".
She told the court Barnfield is on a waiting list for counselling and is "trying as hard as he can to tackle those demons". The defence went on to stress that he did not perceive what he was doing as unlawful.
The court heard that Barnfield, who appeared in court in a white shirt and patterned tie, is saving up money to compensate the officer involved. Sentencing, the court said: "This was a difficult offence which happened in a public place with [police officers]".
He was told to pay £410 in total, including £150 compensation, £60 court costs, and a £150 fine. He was also issued with a £50 fine for a difference case where he was resentenced.
The court told Barnfield: "We are very encouraged that you are doing your [rehab]. Good luck with that."
Somerset Live WhatsApp Breaking News and Top Stories
Join Somerset Live’s WhatsApp community for top stories and breaking news sent directly to your phone
Somerset Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.
Through the app, we’ll send the latest breaking news, top stories, exclusives and much more straight to your phone.
To join our community you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Somerset Live team.
We also treat community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out at any time you like.
To leave our community, click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
