An Isle of Wight man who smashed a police officer's mobile phone against a cell wall "several times", before throwing it in the toilet, has been sentenced.

Richard Lamonte, of New Road, Wootton, appeared at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday, November 17.

On September 18, he pleaded guilty to criminal damage.

The court heard how the 48-year-old was initially arrested by police called to a domestic incident, in the early hours of November 24, 2022.

The court was told "it was clear from body worn camera footage, that he was belligerent and aggressive" towards police officers.

He was also accused of making threats with an axe, which he denied in court, and a charge was dropped, court heard, as there was "no realistic chance of conviction". 

While in custody, Lamonte was given an officer's mobile phone, so he could speak to his solicitor.

Instead of using it, he smashed the phone against the walls of his cell, before throwing it in the toilet bowl.

The court heard how Lamonte, who has seven previous convictions for criminal damage, was woken up early in the morning by police, and accepted he was "belligerent".

Recorder Elisabeth Bussey-Jones handed Lamonte a conditional discharge for 12 months. He was also ordered to pay £95 in costs.