A MAN who threatened his neighbour with a sword is an ‘isolated individual’, a court heard.

Darren Gittins, 51, of Feather Street in Flint, pleaded guilty at North East Wales Magistrates Court in Mold to threatening to kill his neighbour Justas Chmieliauskas and possessing a sharp object in a public place.

He also pleaded guilty to racist language.

The court heard how on February 2, 2020 Gittins had an altercation with his neighbour.

Wyn Jones, prosecuting, said Mr Chmieliauskas has had ‘difficulties for some time’ with Gittins, none of which were reported to the police.

However, on February 2 at 6pm North Wales Police were called to an ‘ongoing incident’.

Mr Jones told the court that Gittins could be heard shouting to Mr Chmieliauskas to ‘get out of here you Polish ****’ and ‘I’m going to kill you, I’m going to cut your eyes out’.

Gittins proceeded to kick Mr Chmieliauskas’ door before returning to his own flat.

Mr Jones said Mr Chmieliauskas shouted ‘stop kicking my door in’ which resulted in Gittins coming back out with what was described as a ‘samurai sword’ saying ‘you’re going to get it’.

Mr Chmieliauskas called the police and Mr Jones said when questioned by officers, Gittins said he ‘understood’ his actions would scare but that was his intention.

Emma Simoes, defending said Gittins had ‘moderate learning difficulties’ and that this was an ‘isolated incident’ from an ‘extremely vulnerable, isolated individual who has managed to stay out of trouble for all these years’.

Chair of magistrates Philip Jones said they would deal with the three charges as one.

Gittins was ordered to complete a 12-month community order with the probation service and pay a fine of £200 – which was reduced from £300 – along with £85 costs and £90 surcharge.

The sword will also be destroyed.

Mr Jones said: “We have considered a restraining order.

“We don’t believe it is practical to have one in this case.

“You have a chance now to go back to the flat, you will still live opposite him so you must find a way to live in harmony.

"Keep away and keep out of trouble. It is up to you to self-restrain.”