Man avoids jail after gouging officer's eyes

Liam Armstrong, 27, admitted four assaults against police officers in Carnarvon Road, Fratton, on July 18.

He was on drugs and had been drinking when he caused a serious injury to one officer by gouging their eyes.

Armstrong also admitted criminal damage to an iPhone 6 and bed frame on the same day and place.

Portsmouth magistrates imposed a two-month sentence suspended for a year.

He must pay £500 compensation to one officer, £100 each to the other three, and a £115 victim surcharge and £85 prosecution costs.

Armstrong, of Graton Street, Selsey, must complete 12 months supervision and 20 days or rehabilitation activity requirements.

His guilty plea was taken into account when he was sentenced last month at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court.