Community service for Douglas man who called police officers 'maggots'

37-year-old's advocate describes offences as 'a blip'

A Douglas man who called police officers ‘maggots’ as they were arresting him has been ordered to carry out 80 hours of community service.

Thirty-seven-year-old Christopher James Christian, of Sumark Croft, admitted disorderly behaviour on licensed premises, and resisting arrest, at Douglas Courthouse last week.

Police were called to SPAR, on Bucks Road, just after 6.30pm on 20 July – Christian had been asked to leave the shop by a staff member due to concerns the person he was with had been stealing.

However he became argumentative and abusive towards the individual and began shouting and swearing excessively.

Outside Christian began to ‘act out’ whilst being arrested claiming: “You don’t have the strength to restrain me, you maggots.”

PAVA spray had to be used to subdue him but his aggressive demeanour continued at Police Headquarters.  

During sentencing Christian’s advocate described the episode as a ‘blip’ adding: “He is a prolific offender but he’s normally known for being compliant with police.”

A probation worker said Christian had led a ‘very chaotic lifestyle’ and had spent a long period of time homeless or sofa-surfing.

A letter of apology, written by the Douglas man, was also read to the court. 

Addressing the shop worker Christian wrote: “You did not deserve my outburst. I can’t say sorry enough.”

Instructing Christian to carry out voluntary work Chair of the Magistrates David Christian said it was a ‘positive way to give back to the community’ adding: “We certainly hope this was just a blip.”

A two-year probation order was also imposed as well as an order to pay £125 in prosecution costs.