A drunken punter who lost his temper at a Northallerton bookies has been shown mercy by magistrates.
William Lee, 34, who has over 80 offences on his record, flew into a rage after a fellow gambler at Betfred in High Street refused to give him a cigarette, York magistrates heard.
“He began to shout and wear at that customer,” said prosecutor Alexander Steadward.
When a staff member told him he shouldn’t be in the premises because he had previously been barred, Lee walked up to the front desk in a “confrontational manner” and began shouting and making threats.
He then tried to pick up a computer, but staff prevented him and called police because he was refusing to leave.
Officers arrived shortly afterwards, escorted Lee off the premises and placed him in a police van, where he continued to be argumentative.
Mr Steadward said that Lee, who was carrying a can of cider, appeared to be drunk.
Lee, of Long Street, Topcliffe, was charged with public disorder and admitted the offence when he appeared in court today (October 27).
Mr Steadward said that Lee had 41 previous convictions for 83 offences including 10 previous instances of public disorder and drink-related offences.
Lee, who was representing himself in court, told magistrates he was reliant on benefits including Universal Credit.
Magistrates gave Lee a 12-month conditional discharge, which means he won’t be punished for the offence unless he reoffends within that period. However, he was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £26 victim surcharge.
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