A DRUNKEN man spat on two police officers from a flat roof before jumping 15ft into a wheelie-bin.

David Russell, 26, of Grand Drive, Herne Bay, pleaded guilty to shouting abuse and spitting at the officers after they found him on the roof of a block of flats in William Street.

Magistrates gave him a 240-day sentence suspended for two years. He must also complete 100 hours of unpaid work and take part in a rehabilitation programme under supervision.

The court heard that Russell had been drinking since noon and had later gone to the flats to get some money from his sister, who was out.

Paul Goldspring, defending, told the court that Russell was “utterly disgusted with himself” for spitting on the officers.

He added that Russell had endured a “difficult upbringing” and was due to start work as a carer for children with special needs.

Anna Kachingwe, prosecuting, said that tenants had called police after hearing Russell bang on the door of the flats.

She said: “Officers found Russell on a roof of the flats and he shouted obscenities at them.

“He then spat on an officer and jumped into a wheelie refuse bin. Officers used a spray on him and then arrested him. He said he did not remember the incident.”

Russell was also ordered to pay £200 compensation and £60 costs.