A TEENAGE girl who punched a police officer to the face has avoided being sent to prison.

Sarah Jane Gibbons was within the custody suite at Govan police office on March 5 last year when she assaulted the cop.

The 19-year-old, from Talbot in East Kilbride, appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court for sentencing after previously pleading guilty to the attack.

On Wednesday, the prosecutor said: “Police were on uniformed patrol when they were requested to assist with a prisoner within Govan police office.

“At 4.45am, whilst police were within the offender’s cell, the accused punched one of the officers to the lower left side of her jaw.”

Glasgow Times:

Gibbons defence solicitor told the court his client has had a difficult background, but now has her own tenancy after a period of homelessness.

He added: “There are also a number of supports in place and she is taking advantage of these. I have explained to her how seriously the courts take this type of behaviour.”

The lawyer said his client has reduced her alcohol intake and a restriction of liberty order would be an advantage as it would require her to be in her house in the evenings.

Sheriff Daniel Kelly told Gibbons: “I will deal with this by way of a community-based disposal. I will place you on a restriction of liberty order.

“I did consider supervision as well but given you seem to be working voluntarily with services, I will allow that to continue rather than interfere.”

The teenager was ordered to stay within her home address between 7pm and 7am for 80 days.