OAP too ill to appear in court over stand-off

A PENSIONER arrested following a 40-hour stand-off with armed police at his home has been unable to attend court because he is too ill.

Terry Bridger, is accused of making threats to kill, possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, common assault and two counts of threatening to damage property.

He is accused of threatening his wife and police with a shotgun.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He was charged by Sussex Police following the stand-off with officers at his property in Harbour Road, Pagham, West Sussex. No-one was injured in the August incident in the quiet coastal village.

The 72-year-old had been due to attend a hearing to enter his pleas at PortsmouthCrown Court but the court was told he was ill and had been diagnosed with cancer.

The court heard that he had recently been transferred from Lewes prison to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. Prosecutor Mark Ashley said: ‘He’s very ill.’

The judge adjourned the case to November 21, with a trial set for February 20.