A MAN who aimed an air rifle at police responding to a 999 call has been jailed.

Paul Chantler, of York Road, Bexhill, has been sentenced to six months in prison following the incident on March 24, 2019.

Police were called to the scene after the 49-year-old made threats to hurt himself with a firearm.

When officers arrived at his house, Chantler shouted threats to “stay away” as he retreated into his garden shed.

Chantler twice pointed the weapon at officers, who feared being seriously harmed.

Officers from the tactical firearms unit fired a baton round – a form of rubber bullet – into the back garden in order to make the arrest.

Police said it was only later officers found out that the suspect was brandishing an air rifle.

The Argus: Paul Chantler, of York Road, Bexhill, has been sentenced to six months in prison following the incident on March 24, 2019 Paul Chantler, of York Road, Bexhill, has been sentenced to six months in prison following the incident on March 24, 2019

Chantler admitted two counts of assaulting a police officer and one count of possessing a dangerous air weapon without a certificate when he appeared at Lewes Crown Court.

He was found not guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Judge Mark Van Der Zwart sentenced him to a total of six months in prison.

The judge said it was an extremely serious incident and that the officers were brave men and women doing a dangerous job.

Judge Van Der Zwart added that the officers had been compassionate and caring, while displaying a firm sense of duty.