'Ashamed' Sunderland man swore at police after turning up to his partner's home after having a drink

Matthew Taylor, 25, of Hendon Valley Court, Hendon, used offensive language to tell them he did not care if his actions led to him being nicked, on Thursday, October 3.

Despite his conduct, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court was told at a hearing that he could have avoided arrest by accepting a caution – but that he rejected the offer from officers.

When he appeared in court, he said his actions stemmed from hearing of a relative’s serious illness – and he had imbibed in alcohol in response to hearing the news.

Prosecutor Paul Anderson said: “There’s been some dispute between him and his partner. He’s sat on the doorstep. He said that his partner was inside.

“A female who was his partner comes down the street and wants to know what the police are doing at her house.

“The officer does his best to calm them down. The female says to the defendant that if he doesn’t calm down, he’ll get arrested. He says, ‘I don’t give a ****’.

“He says that he wants to speak to the lady. He puts his hand out and tries to grab hold of the officer’s hand.

“He has no previous convictions and is of previous good character. The police were prepared to deal with this by way of a caution, but he said no.

“Mr Thompson may have been better served by accepting a caution. He’s brought it upon himself in a way.”

Jobless Taylor, who represented himself before magistrates in court, said: “I just want to say that I’m sorry for being here. I had some really bad news.

“I’d had a drink and went up to see my lass and the police were there. I am ashamed. From that day I’ve not had a drink.”

Deputy District Judge Geraldine Kelly gave Taylor, who pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour, a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered he pay £85 court costs and a £21 victim surcharge.