Man who threw roof tiles at police officers is jailed

A drug addict who threw roof tiles at police during a stand-off with officers has been jailed.

Kyle Watson was wanted by police on recall to prison when he climbed onto the roof of the property in Bridge Street, Bishop Auckland, on December 23 last year.

Watson then spent several hours throwing roof tiles at police officers in the street below, narrowly missing pedestrians and delivery drivers who were trying to deliver Christmas presents.

The 32-year-old was arrested after going back inside the house, where he intended to take more drugs.  

Watson, of Toronto, was taken into police custody and charged with criminal damage to the window of a police car, causing a public nuisance, and possession of Class A and B drugs.

He admitted the offences and was jailed at Durham Crown Court last week for 15 months.

Detective Constable Joshua Chew, from South Durham CID, said: “Watson’s actions that day were reckless and dangerous – it is only by sheer luck that nobody was injured.

“He gave no thought to the safety of those in the street below and caused great distress and disruption to nearby residents. 

“I hope he uses his time in prison to reflect on his actions that day.”