A teenager has admitted carrying a machete-like knife and assaulting a police officer by spitting in his face.

Morgan John Ritchie, of Derby Road, Douglas, will be sentenced on April 1 after a probation report has been completed.

Prosecuting advocate Hazel Carroon told the court that an off-duty police officer saw 17-year-old Ritchie walking on North Shore Road in Ramsey on February 16 at 4.30pm.

He was carrying a large silver bladed knife in his hand, described as a machete-type knife.

The police officer told Ritchie to put the knife down, which he did.

More police arrived but Ritchie was then said to have become aggressive and spat at one of the officers with the spittle landing on his mouth, nose and eye.

The teenager was described as highly intoxicated.

After being arrested and interviewed later at police headquarters, the defendant said ’I cannot remember’ when he was questioned about the incident.

He then answered ’no comment’ to further questions.

Defence advocate Louise Cooil asked for a probation report to be prepared before sentencing.

No bail application was made and he is remanded in custody.