...By Gift BADEWO for TDPel Media.
Teenage Girl Admits Assaulting Police Officers at Sexual Health Clinic
In a disturbing incident at the Monkgate Sexual Health Clinic in York, an 18-year-old girl named Honor Sophia Whyte admitted to assaulting two male police officers and striking a policewoman with a book while in custody.
The incident occurred after Whyte refused to leave the clinic, leading to the intervention of law enforcement officers.
Assault at the Sexual Health Clinic
Whyte’s refusal to vacate the premises prompted a call to the police.
Two male officers, identified as Pc Tuffts and Pc Garside, arrived at the clinic to address the situation.
Despite their attempts to calm Whyte and offer assistance, she remained uncooperative and resisted the staff’s efforts to remove her.
The situation quickly escalated as Whyte became increasingly aggressive, shouting, screaming, and issuing threats towards the staff and officers.
She proceeded to physically attack the officers, kicking and attempting to bite them.
Altercation at the Police Station
After being taken into custody and transported to a local police station, Whyte’s violent behavior continued.
While being held, she targeted a female officer identified as Pc Smith.
Despite being placed under observation, Whyte attempted to spit at Pc Smith and struck her with a Code of Practice Book.
Legal Proceedings and Plea Change
Despite pleas from the defense to spare Whyte from prosecution, the Crown lawyers pressed ahead with the charges.
However, during the trial, Whyte ultimately changed her plea and admitted guilt to three counts of assaulting emergency workers by beating.
The court accepted her guilty pleas based on the argument that Whyte had acted recklessly during a mental health episode.
Court Proceedings and Future Sentencing
During the court appearance, Whyte’s only words were to confirm her understanding of the proceedings and to express gratitude as she was released on unconditional bail until her sentencing.
The Crown lawyers revealed that the guilty pleas were accepted, acknowledging Whyte’s mental health condition during the incident.
The prosecutor emphasized that the officers were initially called to the clinic due to a non-compliant patient who refused to leave, despite being requested to do so by the staff.
Upcoming Sentencing and Background Information
Whyte’s sentencing has been scheduled for June 9, allowing time for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.
Although no specific details were provided regarding the options explored in the report, the charges against Whyte carry a maximum penalty of six months in custody for each count.
Philip Brown, representing Whyte, highlighted her complex personal history, suggesting its relevance to her level of culpability in the offenses.
Previously, Whyte had been residing with her mother in Harrogate but claimed to be of no fixed address at the time of the incident.
