A CHESTER man who was convicted of attacking a police officer has been fined.
Colin Johnston, 29, of Stubbs Place, Blacon, was found guilty following a trial at Chester Magistrates Court to using threatening and/or abusive behaviour against police sergeant Rupert Morrey and PC Katie Hyslop, as well as assaulting PS Morrey, on December 3, 2017.
Prosecuting, Rob Youds said police were called to a domestic incident in Stubbs Place, where it was alleged Johnston's partner had assaulted him and smashed up his van.
Police told her to move away and eventually she was arrested.
Sgt Morrey and PC Hyslop tried to put handcuffs on her when Johnston came over to them and was acting aggressive.
He swore at them and said: "If you don't get off her I'm going to butt you."
Johnston was subsequently sprayed and arrested.
Sgt Morrey did not have any significant injuries apart from reddening of the shin – caused by Johnston's partner – and a small injury to the shoulder caused by Johnston.
Johnston had 16 previous convictions for 29 offences, including a public order offence in 2008, while his last conviction was in April 2017 for being drunk and disorderly.
Johnston's partner had been charged but the case was dropped due to a lack of evidence.
Defending, Joe Bleasdale said Johnston was a man in ill health due to anxiety and depression.
Magistrates fined Johnston £50, plus £50 compensation to Sgt Morrey and £400 court costs.
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