A MAN who threatened to kill a police call handler in a “moment of madness” has been given six months to prove he can behave himself by a judge.

David Farnell, 27, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to threatening to kill the Northamptonshire Police call handler on November 21.

He has also admitted carrying a bladed article in Mold Crescent, Banbury, that day, and damaging property the day before.

Appearing at Oxford Crown Court yesterday via a video link from Bullingdon prison, Farnell was addressed by judge Peter Ross.

Judge Ross said: “Mr Farnell, I have to deal with you for what seems to me, in the the context of your character... a moment of complete and utter madness.

“I think the right thing to do is to see whether or not the commitment you have made to the Probation Service is one that you are going to carry through.

“In effect I am putting you on trial in the next six months.”

Judge Ross told Farnell he would not sentence him until July 31.

In the meantime, Farnell will be subject to supervision by the Probation Service, must live at a set address and take part in a Building Better Relationships program.

He will also have to have counselling treatment and a restraining order was made against a woman in Bicester until further notice.

Judge Ross added: “You won’t commit any offences and I expect you to obtain employment, do you agree?”

Farnell replied: “I do sir, thank you.”

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