A Secret Service agent arrested after allegedly masturbating outside a hotel room in Miami has been placed in a six-month pre-trial diversion programme, a move that could lead to the charges being dismissed.
John Spillman is accused of indecent exposure, described by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office as a lesser, non-violent offence. Prosecutors said he will need to complete classes relating to the alleged offence, alongside self-help and instructional programmes.
The programme also includes drug and alcohol education and 60 hours of community service. If Spillman completes all the requirements, the charges will be dropped, while prosecutors will proceed with the case if he fails to do so.
Ed Griffith, a spokesman for the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, said Spillman must also undergo a mental health assessment if it is decided that one is necessary.
A judge has issued three stay-away orders. One prevents Spillman from approaching the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Miami Airport & Convention Center, while the other two relate to guests he allegedly frightened on 4 May.
Police said Spillman followed hotel guests from the lobby to their room before allegedly masturbating in the hallway outside it.
Arrest footage shows officers ordering Spillman to stand against a wall while tasers were trained on him. He then slid down the wall before being pinned to the floor and handcuffed, with his belt unbuckled and his trousers undone.
At one point, Spillman reportedly admitted he had had “too much to drink” and asked officers whether he could pull up his trousers.
His lawyer, Michael Mirer, said: “Mr. Spillman is happy that this matter is now resolved and all charges will be dismissed.”
