A CHESTER man kicked a police officer in the groin after downing a litre and a half of vodka one morning, a court heard.

Thomas Ernest Jones, 26, of Western Avenue in Blacon, had been drinking since 8am on June 23 this year when police were called to reports of a domestic incident.

When they arrived just after noon they found no criminal offence had taken place but Jones then became abusive shouting at them to “f*** off”.

He was arrested and taken to the custody suite where he was initially calm but then became aggressive after being taken to wash incapacitant ‘Captor’ spray off his face.

As he was led back to his cell he kicked backwards, catching a sergeant in the groin.

At Chester Magistrates Court on Friday (July 12) he pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly and assaulting an emergency worker.

Jones, who has four previous convictions for four offences, was fined £120 and must also pay the sergeant compensation of £50.

Richard Thomas, defending, said Jones had begun turning his life around in recent weeks and had engaged voluntarily with Aqua House alcohol support services in Chester.

“In his police interview he was very remorseful and sorry,” Mr Thomas told the court. “He can’t actually remember what happened because he was so drunk. But he apologises profusely for what happened.”

He also stressed that fortunately the officer did not suffer any injuries and was back on duty shortly after the incident.

Jones was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £30 victim surcharge. This, along with the fines and compensation, will be deducted from his benefits.

Clearly relieved at the outcome, Jones – who was dressed in shorts and a t-shirt - thanked Mr Thomas as he was shown out of the court room.

“Cheers, Rich!” he said.