A man who spat at and assaulted a bus driver in Mandurah has been ordered to undertake a community based program.
Jarred Jade Nannup, 21, pleaded guilty to assaulting a public officer performing a function of employment when he appeared in the Mandurah Magistrates Court on Friday.
Public Transport Authority prosecutor Garry Gillam told the court the incident occurred at the Mandurah Train Station about 9.20am on March 13, 2020.
Mr Gillam said Nannup was on a stationary bus when the driver asked him to exit because of his "offensive language".
Mr Gillam said Nannup spat at the driver and then struck the left side of the driver's face.
Nannup, who represented himself in court, told the Magistrate he had not been taking his medication for epilepsy and had "just got back from fighting with my mother that day".
Mandurah Magistrate Lynette Dias said the maximum penalty for his crime was a $36,000 fine or three years' imprisonment.
"The spitting at an officer is a vile act not to be tolerated," she said.
"Safety of officers ... is a matter of prime importance.
"You're young. Offending doesn't have to be your life. You can get yourself back on track."
Despite describing it as a "serious assault", Ms Dias said Nannup showed "acknowledgement of responsibility".
"You pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity," she said.
"You present as quite remorseful."
Nannup was ordered to undertake an eight-month community based order.
