A MAN unhappy at being arrested at his home, made sectarian comments to one of the police officers who detained him, a court heard.

Martin McDonagh was dressing when police arrived with a warrant for his arrest for an alleged burglary.

Durham Crown Court heard that while in the police van, McDonagh sang Republican songs and, on arrival at Consett police station, was abusive and struggled with the officers.

When placed in a cell he swore at a constable and made a pistol symbol, pointing it in the direction of the officer, saying: "I'll have my day, just you and me."

In interview, he claimed it was because an officer swore at him.

Stephen Rich, in mitigation, said McDonagh was annoyed at being arrested for a burglary he had not committed and for which he was never charged.

McDonagh, 24, of Coquet Street, Chopwell, near Gateshead, admitted causing harassment, alarm or distress.

The prosecution agreed to leave a second charge, of religiously abusive harassment, on file.

Judge Richard Lowden warned McDonagh about using derogatory religious remarks. He imposed a 12-month community rehabilitation order, which includes attending a "think first" probation-programme.