A man has appeared in court after making a threat to take people hostage during a phone chat with a Carlisle City Council staff member.
Darren Thompson, 32, rang the council on March 15 and spoke with a council employee, expressing unhappiness that food vouchers could not be issued to him.
Thompson replied by saying he was flipping, and told the woman: “I will come in there and take people hostage. Swear down I’m not even joking.”
Carlisle Magistrates’ Court heard today the woman continued the call and tried to assist but it was confirmed to Thompson he was not eligible for vouchers.
“If someone gets killed today you can blame yourself, can’t you?” Thompson had replied, causing the member of staff to fear for her safety and that of colleagues.
Cannabis was also found on Thompson, who admitted charges of making an offensive/menacing phone call and controlled drug possession.
When interviewed by police, Thompson cited mental health issues and admitted making the comments out of frustration although had little actual recollection of what had been said. He was played a recording of the city council conversation and insisted he had not intended to carry out any threats.
“He was remorseful for his behaviour and the words he used, and apologised to the victim,” said prosecutor Andy Travis. Thompson, of no fixed address, did not know the woman, had no issue with her but accepted she would have been scared by his comments.
Giving mitigation, defence lawyer Andrew Gurney said: “Mr Thompson is quite clearly in need of some kind of support.”
Magistrates heard a probation service pre-sentence report had already been commissioned in relation to previous offences with a view to rehabilitation options. Thompson’s case was adjourned, he was granted bail and is due to be punished for all matters on May 2.
