Sunderland thug spared jail for what judge described as a 'deeply unpleasant' attack on cop

Serial offender and jailbird John Weatherald, 50, struck in Sunderland city centre after swearing and shouting abuse at police officers.

Intoxicated Weatherald, of Summerhill, near Sunderland University, who owes £7,712 in fines and compensation that will take nine years to clear, inflicted pain but no lasting injury, a court heard.

He has now been handed a 14-week suspended jail term for an attack on Friday, August 7, described by a judge as “deeply unpleasant”.

Prosecutor Grace Taylor told South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court: “Officers were in the Park Lace area after reports of a gang of youths causing problems.

“After speaking to the youths, they saw the defendant sitting on a bench in the area of Blandford Street. They recognise him.”

Ms Taylor said Weatherald swore and shouted racist abuse, and was warned about his behaviour.

She added: “It was within earshot of people, some were young or elderly.

“He swore again and so the officers took hold of him and arrested him on suspicion of a public order offence.

“He became physically and verbally abusive, and said, ‘I’m going to grab your *****’. He grabbed the officer’s groin area, causing pain.

“They call for a police van and the defendant is taken into custody.”

The court heard Weatherald has previous police assault convictions and was jailed for another offence just three days after this crime.

Gerry Armstrong, defending, said Weatherald was now being looked after by a support group and taking steps to beat the booze.

He added: “It’s to his credit that, having seen the CCTV, he has expressed shame at his actions and behaviour which is all down to alcohol.”

District Judge Kathryn Meek told Weatherald: “The police just can’t be expected to tolerate, whatever your relationship with alcohol is.

“You look much better than I’ve seen you look in terms of your health and you are clearly making progress, which is pleasing to hear.”

The court heard Weatherald, who admitted common assault of an emergency worker and causing harassment, alarm or distress, owes £7,712 in fines and compensation that will take nine years to clear.

His sentence was suspended for 12 months and he was ordered to pay the PC £50 compensation.

There were no court costs.

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