JAKE McHale was hit with a policeman s baton several times after he threatened the officer s life during a fracas in Ely city centre. McHale had been warned several times about his behaviour, and was abusive as he told the police man: I am going to kill

JAKE McHale was hit with a policeman's baton several times after he threatened the officer's life during a fracas in Ely city centre.

McHale had been warned several times about his behaviour, and was abusive as he told the police man: "I am going to kill you."

A spit hood was placed on McHale when he continued to be offensive, and he was handcuffed and arrested.

Appearing for sentencing by Ely magistrates on Thursday, 22-year-old McHale, of High Barns, had previously admitted using threatening behaviour in the city on December 13.

A police officer was called to deal with a fight at USA Chicken in Ely, in the early hours of December 13, said prosecutor Laura Mardell.

McHale was not involved in the fight, but arrived at the take-away and approached the officer, who believed he was about to be assaulted.

"As a result the officer pulled out his baton and warned the defendant to stand back," said Miss Mardell.

After being sworn at, the officer warned McHale about his behaviour, and said he would be struck unless he stepped back. McHale had his hands raised as he again approached the officer, and was again told to get back.

In the scuffle to get him McHale under control, the officer suffered injuries to his lower back, right side, and right elbow.

Mitigating, solicitor James Yardy said: "Stupidly be become involved. He acted in this way because of the alcohol he had consumed. He was drowning his sorrows; he had lost his employment and recently suffered the breakdown of a long-term relationship."

McHale was given a 12-month supervision order with a six-month alcohol treatment requirement. He must carry out 80 hours unpaid work, and pay �100 compensation and �150 costs.