Patient made threats to GP after refused prescription

David Miller was abusive and threatened Dr Peter David Riley after his request for diazepam tranquilliser pills was turned down.

He uttered the threats in a phone call to Dr Riley at Tanfield View Medical Centre, in Stanley, County Durham, on September 20, 2004.

Aggrieved at Dr Riley's decision, Miller took his complaint to the top, making further threats, in at least two calls, to Derwentside Primary Care Trust chief executive James Wynn Griffiths.

Miller, 39, of Poplar Street, South Moor, near Stanley, appeared at Durham Crown Court yesterday, when he admitted charges of making a threat to kill Dr Riley and putting a person in fear of violence, relating to the calls to Mr Griffiths.

Stephen Rich, for Miller, told the court that he has been in ill-health, and also suffering depression.

Mr Rich asked for sentence to be adjourned, to allow probation service reports to be drawn up on Miller, with a psychiatric assessment included.

"He's not working, and is on incapacity benefit," said Mr Rich.

"He has only made one relevant previous court appearance, in 1999, and there's been no repeat since this episode, in September 2004.

"He's been on bail on condition that he keeps away from that particular surgery," added Mr Rich.

Recorder Ian Atherton agreed to adjourn sentence, to allow the reports to be drawn up on Miller.

He told him: "I see that you have never been to prison, and I have to bear in mind these offences took place almost 18 months ago.

"I'm told there has been no repeat of this appalling behaviour.

"It's important doctors, and those in public places, are properly protected by the courts.

"But, because of your good behaviour over the past 18 months, and your poor health, I have decided I will recommend a community rehabilitation order to offer you help."

He added: "We'll need the reports to get some sort of insight into your behaviour."

Mr Atherton bailed Miller to be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court, in the week of April 3.