A WOMAN has denied having a hammer during an incident which saw five police officers covered in petrol.

Janine Justin, 47, appeared at Basildon Crown Court on Friday where she denied one count of possessing an offensive weapon.

The charge relates to an alleged incident in Ward Close, Laindon on May 5, where police had attempted to arrest a youth riding a motorbike which had been stolen from a vigil on Canvey.

When officers tried to arrest the youth at a block of flats they had petrol thrown in their faces and another person allegedly armed themselves with a hammer.

Janine Justin, of Ward Close, spoke only to confirm her name and address at court on Friday, as well as denying possession of an offence weapon.

Justin Jackson, 28, also of Ward Close, has been arrested and charged with seven counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

They are both due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, September 23 for a hearing to decide on trial dates.

Addressing Janine Justin in court, Judge Andrew Hurst said: “What happens now is there must be a hearing to decide whether you and Justin Jackson can stand trial at the same time.

“This will be held a week on Monday, and during that time you must ensure you are co-operating with your solicitors and barrister to ensure you prepare a defence statement.

“You must be at the next hearing, as if you do not attend, you run the risk of the trial taking place without you, and in your absence you may not be represented.”

Janine Justin was released on unconditional bail.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be identified due to his age, was arrested and charged with offences including dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of handling stolen goods in relation to the incident.

He was remanded into youth detention at an earlier hearing and pleas have yet to be taken.