A DRUNKEN police officer who assaulted a pool player who irritated him has been made the subject of a suspended prison sentence.

Swansea crown court heard today, August 3, that James Morgans, aged 47, would almost certainly lose his job after a police disciplinary hearing next week.

Morgans, of Jackson's Way, Goodwick, had been convicted by a jury, following a five day trial, of assaulting Scott McDonald causing him actual bodily harm.

The assault happened on April 17 of last year, while PC Morgans was off duty.

The court heard that Morgans had drunk a vast amount of alcohol while celebrating with friends he had not seen for a while.

About 1.30am he was in the Old Coach House, Fishguard, where Mr McDonald was celebrating winning the semi-final of a pool tournament.

Judge Geraint Walters said Morgans became annoyed at Mr McDonald's boasting about how he would win the entire competition, which he did in fact do.

In a "moment of madness" Morgans grabbed hold of him and bit his nose.

"You later described Mr McDonald as a cocky little git," said Judge Walters. "You were irritated by his banter and in the heat of the moment you let your guard down."

Judge Walters said he was sure that Morgans had drunk more that night than he could remember.

Morgans' barrister, Paul Hobson, said it was a foregone conclusion that Morgans would lose his career as a police officer.

Judge Walters said he agreed that that was the overwhelmingly likely outcome.

He said he understood the incident had "polarised opinions" in the Fishguard area.

"I appeal to people living in that closely-knit community to leave matters where they are and get on with their lives," he added.

Morgans was jailed for eight months, suspended for two years, and must complete 180 hours of unpaid work and pay Mr McDonald £500 in compensation.

Dyfed-Powys Police is proceeding with an internal misconduct process. Deputy Chief Constable Darren Davies said: “Dyfed Powys Police expects the highest standard of professional behaviour from our officers and staff and the appropriate action will be taken to maintain these standards. We will always deal robustly with individuals whose behaviour on or off duty brings discredit to Dyfed-Powys Police and the Police Service.”