A MAN has appeared in court accused of donning a friend’s uniform without permission and posing as a police community support officer (PCSO).

Samuel John Houlihan is said to have put on the uniform, which includes a CS gas spray, before going “on patrol” in a town centre.

But, having been drinking that evening, his demeanour aroused suspicion and he was arrested, allegedly damaging a taxi as he was detained.

It is understood he was earlier “house-sitting” at the home of a friend who is a community support officer on the night in question, Saturday, October 4.

Twenty-year-old Mr Houlihan appeared via video link from Holme House Prison, at Stockton, at a short preliminary hearing at Durham Crown Court today (Friday October 24).

He is charged with impersonating a police constable, or police community support officer, with intent to deceive, possessing a prohibited weapon capable of discharging a noxious liquid, and criminal damage, arising from events on October 4.

Shaun Dryden, prosecuting, said the defendant is also accused of making threats to kill and criminal damage, arising from a further incident, on October 10.

His barrister, Julie Clemitson, asked for preparation of a psychiatric report on Mr Houlihan prior to future hearings in the case.

“I’m relatively confident there will be no problem over his fitness to plead, but it may assist the court, in due course.

“The facts are unlikely to be challenged. Mr Houlihan fully accepts what is put to him.”

Recorder Paul Miller adjourned the hearing and said Mr Houlihan, of Linburn Grove, Bishop Auckland, will remain in custody.

His next court appearance, possibly again via video link from prison, will be at a plea hearing in the case, on January 9.