A MAN who was receiving hospital treatment berated NHS staff for not arranging his transport home – despite having £200 cash in his pocket

Paul Longthorne, who has appeared before the court for 236 previous offences, shouted at NHS staff who treated him when they told him he would have to order a taxi or get the bus home.

The 44-year-old was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital on the evening of Saturday, September 7, by an emergency crew for treatment to facial injuries.

Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court heard that after staff finished his treatment at around 4.30am he refused to leave and police had to be called.

Jeff Taylor, prosecuting, said: “He asked how he was supposed to get home and he didn’t like the answer he was given.

“He shouted at a police officer and asked him ‘What f*****g duty of care is that?’ before becoming a bit more abusive and telling police officers that he wasn’t leaving.

“He eventually left but returned within the hour and was subsequently arrested.

“At the police station officers found £200 cash and a mobile phone in his pocket.”

Mr Taylor added: “He has been before the court for 236 offences previously and has recently been in custody for possession of a bladed article.”

Stephen Hamill, representing Longthorne, said the defendant had experienced a traumatic childhood.

He said: “It has had a lasting impact on him and has manifested itself in drug abuse and his high level of offending.

“He’s truly sorry for his behaviour for that night. He knows what he did was wrong and that is why he has pleaded guilty to this offence.”

Longthorne, who shouted at magistrates and a probation officer throughout the hearing, pleaded guilty to one charge of causing without reasonable excuse on NHS premises a nuisance or disturbance.

Chair of the bench, William Smith, who told Longthorne to be quiet several times, said: “What we are going to do is fine you £40.”

Longthorne, of Wood Street, Spennymoor, was also ordered to pay a £40 victim surcharge. He currently owes more than £1,700 in fines to the court.