'Unwell' man abused police officer at Sunderland Royal Hospital after weapon incident in Blandford Street

Leon Parkin, 21, of Lanton Street, New Herrington, Houghton, repeatedly used the same vile racist phrase in a quick-fire outburst.

It was made at Sunderland Royal Hospital after he was detained in Blandford Street for carrying an extendable baton.

A court heard he was taken for medical treatment after apparently attempting to earlier overdose on Wednesday, September 2.

Parkin’s comments were picked up on the PC’s body-worn camera – and he also called the officer a homophobic term.

He was described in court by District Judge Kathryn Meek as having a “dreadful” criminal record.

She said Parkin’s offences were so serious he must be sentenced at the higher crown court – where heavier sentences can be handed down.

The judge ordered the defendant be kept in custody until a hearing at crown court.

Prosecutor Oriana Frame told South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court: “The officer has responded to a report of a male with a knife.

“The defendant was stopped after matching the description of the alleged offender.

“He is taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital. He responds with the homophobic remarks.

“He threatens to use violence. He was acting very aggressively and very loudly.”

After being arrested at the hospital, Parkin was caught on the video footage saying “sound”, the court heard.

During the hearing, Parkin told the court he had overdosed that day.

Richard Copsey, defending, said: “This is a young man who has a long history of mental health problems.

“He has mental health problems and you would probably accept that these are the actions of someone who is unwell.

“This is a man who has severe mental health problems.

“He has taken this very seriously, he is trying to turn his life around. He hasn’t committed any offence for four weeks.”

Parkin pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon in public and to causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress.

Judge Meek adjourned the case for sentencing at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, October 30.