Police were subjected to a torrent of abuse and repeated spitting when they arrested a 38-year-old Elgin man on Monday night.
Ian Mitchell was drinking heavily in his home at Findhorn Court when officers came to arrest him following an allegation against him.
Inverness Sheriff Court was told that, as he was being placed in the police van, he began spitting towards the police who managed to shut the door before anyone was struck.
Fiscal depute David Morton said: “He was taken to the charge bar where he continued to be irate and abusive. Every person in that situation is asked a series of questions, particularly if they have Covid or symptoms.
“He replied yes I have it and was told it was not a laughing matter. He then asked them do you want it? and manoeuvered towards them as if to cough or spit in their direction.
“He was restrained and then as is the protocol during the coronavirus crisis, he was taken to the custody suite in Inverness where he continued as before and spitting.”
Defence solicitor Stephen Carty said: “It will come as no surprise to the court that he has no recollection of this as he was heavily under the influence of alcohol.”
Mitchell admitted one charge of threatening behaviour and one of police assault.
Sheriff Margaret Neilson deferred sentence, but remanded Mitchell in custody.
