Teenager pleads for curfew order

Kim Smith, 18, of Hastings Road, appeared in court on Monday having already pleading guilty to assault by beating, harrasment, two charges of common assault and resisting a police officer.

Smith admitted punching the manager of McDonald's four times and twice spitting at the restaurant worker during an argument back on August 8. Chidi Umezike, defending, told magistrates Smith was full of remorse and wanted help in turning her life round.

He said: "She wants to stop drinking and is working hard to cut down her alcohol consumption.

"She admits spitting at the manager of McDonald's was a disgusting thing to do and is very sorry. She has not offended for a few months now and is staying sober and out of trouble.

"Although currently unemployed she has just finished a sport and fitness course at Hastings College and is looking for work.

"She had an interview last week at a cafe and is waiting to hear when she will be needed."

Magistrates decided her request for a curfew was the right way to deal with the charges.

She was given a 12-month community order and told she had to remain in her house between the hours of 8pm and 7am every Thursday to Sunday for three months.

Smith will now be fitted with an electronic tag to monitor her behaviour.

She was also told to pay compensation of 100 to the restaurant manager and costs of 15.

In a separate incident Smith pleaded guilty to criminal damage and was given a 12-month conditional discharge and told to pay a further 100 compensation and 10 costs.