A HEREFORD man who assaulted three police officers has been ordered to take anger management lessons.

Andrew Doherty, aged 34, of Kinnersley Close, Newton Farm, left three officers needing hospital treatment on February 29.

Doherty appeared before Hereford Magistrates after previously admitting three counts of assaulting a PC.

But magistrates agreed his actions were “reckless” rather than intentional, and handed Doherty a community order.

Gemma Goode, prosecuting, said three officers were called to Doherty’s home shortly after 11pm on an unrelated matter.

Ms Goode said that Doherty was co-operative at first, but struggled and assaulted the trio after a friend was arrested.

“The three officers were injured as a result. The inspector had swelling on his neck and bruises and attended hospital with a suspected broken nose,” she said.

Ms Goode added the other officers also suffered bruises, swelling and cuts.

Marilena Di Vitantonio, for Doherty, said the defendant was frustrated and emotional due to previous family events. She called his behaviour “reckless”, and denied Doherty was a violent person.

“He doesn’t go around looking for trouble, he doesn’t think with his fists and he genuinely regrets his actions,” she said.

Doherty was ordered to pay compensation totalling £500 to the officers as part of a 12- month community order.

He was also ordered to attend anger management sessions, carry out 80 hours unpaid work and pay costs of £125.

A 12-month supervision requirement was also imposed.