A homeless man found drunk in an alleyway in Chester city centre claimed he worked for the Home Office before kicking a police officer.
Steven Paul Johnson, 43, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in a public place and assaulting an officer in the execution of his duty when he appeared at Chester Magistrates Court today (Wednesday, November 4).
Prosecutor Rob Youds told the court that two PCSOs were called to a report of a drunk male slumped in an alley in Lower Bridge Street on Tuesday (November 3).
They discovered Johnson, who was described as being ‘aggressive’ and using foul language.
Mr Youds said Johnson repeatedly told them that he worked for the Home Office.
Police officers arrived and arrested Johnson, who has 91 previous convictions for 191 offences.
It was while he was being searched that he kicked PC Wright on the leg, which left a small bruise.
Defendant has 'difficulties'
Sarah Yates, defending, said her client is someone who ‘really does have rather a lot of difficulties’.
She explained that Johnson had been making his way to Wrexham to find a room in a shelter when the incident occurred.
“He thought that because he was in an alleyway, it was fine to drink there,” she said.
“He was not thinking and lashed out. He accepts that he does have problems.”
Magistrates sentenced Johnson to 28 days in custody for breaching a suspended sentence imposed following a racially aggravated public order offence, and an additional seven days’ jail time for the assault, which is to be served consecutively.
He was also ordered to pay a £150 criminal court charge and £50 compensation to PC Wright.
