A MAN who assaulted his ex-partner and a police officer while drunk has been spared prison.

Stephen John Moore was given a suspended prison sentence by magistrates in Newton Aycliffe.

The court heard that the 43-year-old from Bishop Auckland had gone to his ex’s home in the town at around 4am on February 24.

Prosecutor Blair Martin said Moore had gone round while drunk several times since the end of their 20-year relationship but Moore’s partner could usually calm him down.

Mr Martin said on this occasion Moore, of McIntyre Terrace, was particularly aggressive and assaulted his ex as police were called.

As he was arrested Moore resisted officers, the court heard, and at the police station he grabbed the custody sergeant by his neck and thrust him against a wall, the court heard.

Mr Martin said Moore’s ex partner suffered bruising to her face and the sergeant was shocked but uninjured.

Moore, who admitted assault, assault a PC and resisting an officer, was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months with 12 months supervision and was ordered to pay £85 costs and an £80 victim surcharge.