NATHAN Law, 19, has been sentenced to four months in prison for repeatedly kicking PC James Trafford during his arrest in February.

At North Wiltshire Magistrates Court last Wednesday, Law, of London Road, Chippenham, who had previously given his address as Penhill Road, Calne, was given a further four months to run concurrently, for driving while disqualified on November 20. He was also banned from driving for three years.

In addition, the teenager was given a one-month sentence, to run concurrently, for stealing a bottle of whisky from Sainsbury's in Calne on February 2.

Amanda Sawetz, prosecuting, said Law and a female passenger were stopped by police at 3.40pm on November 20, on the M4 near Bristol.

Officers smelt alcohol on Law's breath, and arrested him. He was put in a patrol car, but tried to get out of a window.

"The officer pulled him back and, in trying to close the door, received a number of blows to his head," said Ms Sawetz.

She said Law was agitated, spitting, and had his fists clenched, and tried to headbutt another policeman. He smashed one window and cracked another.

Ms Sawetz said while on bail Law was caught trying to steal whisky from Sainsbury's in Calne. It took seven members of staff to hold him down outside the shop until police arrived.

In interview, Law said he lashed out at staff because he thought he was being attacked.

On February 16, Law was seen by police in a car park near Wood Lane, Chippenham, at 1.37am. They found cannabis on him.

Ms Sawetz said: "Mr Law became agitated, refused to get in the car, and kicked a police officer on the right leg. As he was put in to the car, he repeatedly kicked out. The officer was hit very hard on the left wrist, and the pain was so severe he lost the use of his wrist and arm."

Law smashed the car's rear window, and badly buckled a door.

Stephen Clifford, defending, said Law needed help. He said he could be suffering from a form of autism that makes him agitated when challenged.

"It is imperative that in the near future Mr Law is allowed to address this problem," said Mr Clifford.

He said community psychiatric nurses are preparing a care programme for Law.

He said Law regretted the attacks on the officers, and had apologised during a police interview.