A man who punched a first contact officer at police headquarters reception has been handed a suspended sentence.

James Anthony Eagers admitted common assault and was also ordered to pay his victim £800 compensation.

We previously reported that 43-year-old Eagers went to police headquarters on November 10.

He said he wanted to report a case of medical negligence, but was told it was not a criminal matter.

Eagers initially left, but then returned and started reading out an article from his phone.

He was again told it was not a criminal matter, but this time responded by punching the first contact officer on the side of the face, knocking his glasses off.

The victim suffered reddening to the area he was struck on.

When interviewed, Eagers claimed his life was in danger, and he had researched the matter using AI.

Defence advocate Helen Lobb handed in a letter of apology from her client.

A probation report and a psychiatric report were prepared.

Ms Lobb said that Eagers had been suffering from mental health issues at the time of the offence, and was still receiving treatment.

The advocate said that his mental health had since improved and a package was in place for ongoing support.

Ms Lobb said Eagers had also stopped using cannabis and that a custodial sentence would only destabilise his progress, as well as resulting in his loss of accommodation.

The probation report assessed Eagers, who lives at Lord Street in Douglas, as a medium risk of reoffending and harm to the public, but a high risk of harm to professionals.

Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood sentenced the defendant to 15 weeks’ custody, suspended for two years.

He must also pay £125 prosecution costs, as well as the compensation, and will pay at a rate of £10 per week, deducted from benefits.