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Man in court after armed police deployed to estate

Google A large municipal building with a purple facade reading "North Somerset Court House". A large brick concourse sits in front of the building.Google
Richard Thornton appeared at North Somerset Magistrates Court

A man has appeared in court charged with possession of an imitation firearm after a police armed response unit was deployed to a housing estate.

Officers fired twice during the incident at Merlin Park in Portishead on 30 April, and a man was taken to hospital with an injury to his hand.

Richard Thornton, who lives on the estate, appeared at North Somerset Courthouse on Monday charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

He was further charged with possession of class B drugs and was remanded into custody ahead of his next appearance at Bristol Crown Court on 9 June.

Avon and Somerset Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct following Mr Thornton's arrest and was told an investigation into the policing response will be conducted.

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