Leicester police engaged in a significant incident involving a De Montfort University student, Reshan Kajathas, who was involved in an escape attempt. This event unfolded on November 13, raising concerns about public safety and the use of illegal substances.
Incident Overview
Reshan Kajathas, a 20-year-old finance and accounting student, was driving his girlfriend’s VW Golf in Tudor Road without insurance. The vehicle contained banned nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas. When police activated their blue lights to pull over Kajathas, he attempted to flee.
Details of the Arrest
At approximately 4:15 PM, police officers stopped Kajathas, who exhibited erratic behavior as he tried to evade capture. Officers quickly handcuffed him to prevent his escape. During the struggle, an officer sustained an injury when Kajathas actively resisted the handcuffs and bent the officer’s fingers back.
To subdue him, police utilized pepper spray, which allowed them to take Kajathas to the ground. Despite this, he continued to resist arrest. Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered the presence of class C drugs.
Legal Proceedings
At Leicester Magistrates’ Court on November 28, Kajathas pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including driving without insurance, possessing class C drugs, and resisting arrest. Prosecutor Abena Achiaa detailed the incident’s progression, highlighting the police’s reason for stopping the vehicle and the subsequent events that transpired.
- Incident Date: November 13
- Court Date: November 28
- Charges: Driving without insurance, possession of class C drugs, resisting arrest
- Fines and Penalties: £61 fine, £85 court costs, £24 victim surcharge
- Compensation: £50 to injured officer
- License Points: 6 points added
Defendant’s Background
Berinder Chawla, representing Kajathas, emphasized that his client was not using nitrous oxide recreationally. Instead, he cited Kajathas’ struggle with severe depression, stating that the substance was a coping mechanism for feelings of isolation and hopelessness he experienced while studying in Leicester.
This incident could lead to further repercussions from De Montfort University, as concerns persist about the implications of such behavior on academic standing and student welfare.
