A man going through separation proceedings was given a suspended sentence for producing a shotgun and ordering his wife to leave his house during an argument.

The 62-year-old man was given a three-month jail term suspended for one year after he pleaded guilty to threatening to use violence against his wife and verbally threatening her on Friday.

Police Inspector Edmund Cuschieri, prosecuting, explained the couple were going through separation proceedings and lived in different residences. However, on Friday, the woman went to her husband’s house in St Paul’s Bay to pick up some clothes. An argument broke out and the man picked up a shotgun and ordered her to leave the house, Mr Cuschieri said.

The two had several arguments before but this one escalated, he said.

The husband also pleaded guilty to being in possession of the shotgun and cartridges without a licence.

Appearing before Magistrate Antonio Micallef Trigona, he apologised for his actions and for taking up his time.

The court took note of the apology and issued a protection order against the woman for six months.

Lawyer Matthew Brincat was defence counsel.