A man who threatened two terrified Workington hotel night porters with an fake firearm has been spared immediate prison.
Both staff members were carrying out inspections outside the Sleepwell Inn, Washington Street, just after 10pm on October 7, when they saw smashed items had been hurled on to the road through a broken window of the building.
They tried and failed to gain entry to that room but heard a voice from inside.
On a second trip back inside they saw Kris Welford at the top of stairs, holding a real-looking gun which he pointed towards them and saying: “I’ve got a licence and I’ll use it.”
Both porters retreated and called police, prompting an emergency response involving armed officers, the street being shut off and a cordon set up.
When arrested, 41-year-old Welford was unsteady on his feet, slurring his words and appeared under the influence of some sedative. He was later detained under the Mental Health Act, Carlisle Crown Court heard.
When the room was searched, two gas-powered air pistols – a Walther and Sig Sauer – were seized.
These were not prohibited weapons but a police expert concluded they were made to have the appearance of genuine handguns.
“This was being held and pointed in a classic shooting position, both hands holding the gun while threats as to use were being shouted,” prosecutor Tim Evans said of the brandished pistol.
Both porters later described their overwhelming terror and thoughts for family members during the incident.
Mr Evans said of one: “He was in constant fear he could get shot and die.”
Welford, of Washington Street, Workington, admitted possessing an imitation firearm with intent to case fear of violence and damaging property.
He had since spent four months in custody on remand, was deemed suitable for probation service work and, said his lawyer, was “motivated to change when released”.
After hearing of hope for Welford, Recorder Philip Grundy suspended a 12-month jail term for 18 months, adding rehabilitation and 150 hours’ unpaid work.
But the judge said of the two hotel porters: “You frightened them. You caused them nightmares. You caused them to be concerned for their own safety on this particular day.”
