AN INTOXICATED man had to be Tasered by police after threatening officers with a knife and a plank of wood when they tried to intervene in a domestic dispute at his partner's home.

Christopher Edwards, from Nailsworth, admitted charges of affray and common assault when he appeared at Gloucester Crown Court on Thursday.

The 45-year-old, who lives in Bridge Street, was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay £120 in prosecution costs.

Police were called to an address in Matthews Way, Stroud on December 21 last year, where they found Edwards’ partner screaming and shouting.

Officers could hear banging at the back door and when they investigated they found the defendant trying to get into the property and brandishing a plank of wood and a knife, the court heard.

He was abusive to the officers and spat at them.

The police had to use a Taser gun to bring Edwards to the ground, the court was told.

Tim Burrows, representing Edwards, said his client was intoxicated at the time of the offence – despite not willingly drinking alcohol.

Mr Burrows said Edwards had told him that he could not remember going to his partner's home or confronting the police officers, and that his medication had played a part in his wild behaviour.

“There have been psychiatric reports and my client says he has no memory of the incident," Mr Burrows said.

“He had previously been to a bonfire party and had drunk punch which he was told was non-alcoholic, but clearly it was not.

“This had a catastrophic effect when combined with his medication.”

Recorder Peter Towler took pity on Edwards, telling the court that he was making strides to turn his life around by seeking professional help.

“You brandished a knife and a plank of wood at the police officers and spat at them," said Recorder Towler.

“But it seems that your behaviour was the result of drink and your medication and that you have now sought help with Turning Point to reduce your dependence on drugs.”

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