FURIOUS Lorraine Ellis spat in a policeman s face when officers refused to loosen handcuffs during her arrest. The 43-year-old – who believed she was suffering from a fractured wrist at the time of the fracas -- resisted police as they tried to restrain h

FURIOUS Lorraine Ellis spat in a policeman's face when officers refused to loosen handcuffs during her arrest.

The 43-year-old - who believed she was suffering from a fractured wrist at the time of the fracas -- resisted police as they tried to restrain her, she struggled and shouted abuse.

Ellis then spat at PC David Bishop during the melee, with spittle landing on his face, Ely magistrates were told.

At Ely courthouse on Thursday, Ellis, of White Hart Lane, Soham, admitted assault. She was given a 12-month supervision order, and must pay �50 compensation to the officer, and �50 costs.

"She was indignant, she immediately resisted officers, believing she should not be arrested," said prosecutor Angela Sassoli.

"The officer had to be assisted because she struggled; she shouted abuse and spat in PC Bishop's face."

Solicitor Adam Haselhurst said Ellis was indignant and upset when she was arrested over an allegation of criminal damage, which had not resulted in any charges.

"Police were heavy handed with her," he said. "The handcuffs were extremely tight; she believed she had a broken scaphoid in her left wrist, so she was in pain.

"She asked officers to loosen the handcuffs, but they would not do so.