A LOWER Quinton man has been given a suspended sentence for homophobic abuse and threats to kill a police officer.

Elrod Linziy, of Thackeray Close, was found guilty of two public order offences which happened in the village in April.

The first offence took place on April 6 at the Meon Medical Centre when a man was subjected to verbal and physical threats, in front of patients in a waiting room by the 47-year-old.

The second took place on April 18 when, after being arrested at his address, Linziy made homophobic comments to and threatened to harm and kill, PC Craig Purcell. The comments were made near young children, playing in Thackeray Close.

A full day trial was held at Leamington Magistrates Court on Thursday, July 21, with evidence given by PC Purcell, PCSO Andy Steventon, and members of the public.

At the end of the trial the presiding judge found Linzi guilty on both counts.

He was sentenced on July 28, being given 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months. He was ordered to pay fines, court costs and compensation orders totalling £430, as well as being told to complete 100 hours of unpaid work.

Linziy was also given a restraining order which ensures he can not contact two residents of Lower Quinton attending The Fordway or the Meon Medical Centre, in Lower Quinton, unless in a medical emergency.

After the case, PC Purcell said: "I would like to thank those who gave evidence in this matter.

"To take time out of your own lives and provide evidence in court is a wonderful thing to do for your community and the people affected by the actions of this male.

"Numerous elderly residents of Lower Quinton had called the Medical Centre following this incident afraid to attend for the treatment they needed.

"Thanks to the actions of those who helped my investigation, residents of Lower Quinton can now attend the centre without fear of this happening again."