A man who struggled with police and then ran away has been sentenced to 180 hours’ community service.

Lee Abbott, of South Cape, Laxey, pleaded guilty in court to being drunk and disorderly, escaping lawful custody, and resisting arrest.

High Bailiff Jayne Hughes also ordered the 38-year-old to pay £750 compensation to an injured police officer and banned him from entering licensed premises, and purchasing or being sold alcohol for three months.

Prosecuting advocate Rebecca Cubbon told the court how police were on patrol in Laxey on August 23 at 12.30am when they saw a couple arguing on New Road.

It was Abbott and his partner, who was dealt with separately. However, as police were dealing with the woman Abbott was said to have become angry and told one officer: ’Take your badge off and start on me then.’

He was told to back away but was said to have pushed the officer and then tried to pull the woman away.

Abbott was told he was being arrested but as police attempted to handcuff him he flailed his arms and walked backwards.

During the struggle, Abbott fell on top of one officer causing the officer to cut his head on the ground.

Abbott was then said to have run away before being found after more police arrived and arrested him.

Ms Cubbon said that no assault charge had been brought as it was accepted the injury to the police officer was caused during a fall.

The court heard that Abbott has no previous convictions. A probation report said that Abbott was a self-employed maintenance contractor.

He told probation he had drunk about five drinks that night and had been arguing with his partner.

Abbott claimed he could not recall much due to his head also hitting the ground also, combined with the alcohol.

Defence advocate Stephen Wood said: ’Mr Abbott should have been quiet and compliant and should not have involved himself. His decision was no doubt fuelled by alcohol. There was a level of intoxication though not particularly high. Heightened emotions and alcohol has led to a confrontation.

’For a man who doesn’t come before the courts matters have weighed heavily on him.

’He wishes to apologise to the officers and the court for his behaviour.

’I would submit, given his previous record, he can be trusted not to come before the court again.’

Mrs Hughes told Abbott: ’It was a disgraceful incident. You took it upon yourself to be aggressive and confrontational with police officers.’

Abbott was also ordered to pay £125 prosecution costs which he will pay, along with the compensation, at a rate of £75 per month.