Man denies assaulting cop

A 23-year-old man today denied assaulting a police officer but admitted obstruction.

Faisal Baia was arrested at 3:10am on November 15 and was taken to the jail area of the Hamilton Police Station.

When he arrived, he was told the remove his shoes but Baia threw himself against the wall and refused to take off his shoes.

Prisoners must remove their shoes before entering the cell area of the police station, the court heard.

The officer went and got the Sergeant on duty to assist and Baia was once again asked to remove his shoes and refused.

The Sergeant then went to take off Baia’s shoes and a struggle began.

Baia pleaded guilty to obstructing the officer but denied assaulting him.

He was remanded into custody until tomorrow afternoon when he will stand trial.