AN IPSWICH man who unleashed a volley of racist abuse at a black policeman and his family as they sat at home said he could not understand why he did it.

AN IPSWICH man who unleashed a volley of racist abuse at a black policeman and his family as they sat at home said he could not understand why he did it.

Unemployed Paul Fitch told South East Suffolk Magistrates' Court he had black friends, used to work for a black person and was due to attend the wedding of a black couple.

He said he could provide no rational explanation for the tirade, which took place near Fitch's Mount Drive home on August 17, and admitted he was ashamed and embarrassed by his actions.

Robert Barnwell, prosecuting, said the incident had left the officer and his wife feeling “extremely upset and distressed”.

He added: “The officer suffered abuse in his own home in the presence of his wife and children.”

Fitch, 39, pleaded guilty to a charge of racially aggravated threatening or abusive behaviour.

Ian Duckworth, mitigating, said his client was a heavy drinker and had consumed a large amount of alcohol prior to the incident.

He also claimed Fitch, currently living with his brother, had argued with his partner earlier that day.

Mr Duckworth continued: “There is no reason as to why this occurred.

“He had never met this policeman and that's why it's all the more bizarre.

“He is not a racist.”

Sentencing Fitch to a four-month curfew order, district judge Samantha Leigh said his remorse was clear.

She added: “Just from looking at you, I can see you are deeply ashamed of being here today.

“I have deliberately given you a curfew of 7pm to 7am to keep you out of the pub.”

Fitch was also ordered to pay £34 costs.

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