November sentence for noisy neighbour who refused to turn off music

Police negotiator elevated to roof after 39-year-old fled

A Douglas man who sparked the use of a police negotiator after refusing to turn off his loud music will be sentenced next month.

Carl Joseph Bridson, of Derby Road, was issued with a notice under the Noise Act just after 5am on 24 July.

Officers had attended the 39-year-old’s home after complaints from members of the public about the music and his singing – they asked him to be quiet but an intoxicated Bridson refused.

He swore at officers, threatened to fight with them and told them that if they returned to his property they’d get hurt.

When they did return, and forced entry, Bridson escaped onto the roof – the road around the building had to be closed and the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service and the Ambulance Service were called.

Firefighters used an aerial platform to lift a police negotiator up to speak to Bridson but he ran off – he was later detained by two members of the public on a nearby building site.

At Douglas Courthouse Bridson admitted two offences of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour and making unreasonable noise after being given notice.

A social enquiry report has been requested before Bridson is sentenced on 30 November; he’s been bailed until that date.  

Update: At Douglas Courthouse on 30 November sentence was adjourned to 14 December.