Sunderland woman smashed up ex's home in rampage and punched police officer called to the ruckus

Michelle Bell smashed pictures off walls, broke a new £400 TV and was "shouting and swearing" when she arrived at her ex's home in Sunderland unannounced in the early hours of November 20, 2019.

Newcastle Crown Court heard her former partner, a mum-of-five, was so "petrified" of what Bell might do that she called the police.

Prosecutor Glenn Gatland told the court an officer who arrived at the scene told Bell she was under arrest but added: "Before she had a chance to put handcuffs on, Bell drew her right fist back and punched her twice in the side of the face."

The court heard the officer was left with cuts and swelling and said in a victim statement: "I have a family who I go home to every day. I don't expect to be assaulted when I come to work, just for doing my job.

"I shouldn't have to explain to my family why I am injured or what has happened."

Bell struggled with a second officer and tore his uniform before she was eventually taken away from the house.

Her ex-partner said in her victim statement: "This has left me frightened. I fear she will return, I'm worried she will return and upset my children.

"I am shocked to think someone I trusted acted so violently.

"Michelle had never been like that before.

"I don't want her anywhere near me again."

Bell confessed when questioned she had been drunk at the time and said she wished to apologise to the officers involved.

The 32-year-old, of Renfrew Road, Sunderland, admitted damaging property, assault on an emergency worker and resisting a police constable.

Judge Sarah Mallett sentenced her to four months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with rehabilitation requirements and alcohol treatment programme.

Bell was ordered to pay £400 compensation for the smashed television.

Judge Mallett said Bell was "heavily intoxicated" when she committed the offences but has now addressed her problems, created "real change" in her life and has a good prospect of rehabilitation.

Tony Cornberg, defending, said in the months since the offences Bell has worked hard to become a "different person" and sought professional help herself.

Mr Cornberg said Bell is now five-months pregnant.

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