A New Zealander who early yesterday caused some commotion inside a Paceville hotel and punched a policeman was handed a suspended sentence and a €4,000 fine today after admitting to the charges.

Stacey Wayne Wright, 21, from New Zealand, went to the hotel in Ball Street, Paceville to sort out a personal issue reportedly involving a woman. A heated argument broke out and in the ensuing tussle a police officer ended up being punched in the face.

Mr Wright was today charged with having assaulted and slightly injured the police officer as well as with having directed his violence against a third party. The man was further charged with having disturbed the public peace and with having refused to obey police orders.

Magistrate Neville Camilleri heard the defence explain that besides facing justice in Malta his client also had to face the wrath of his parents back home in New Zealand. Mr Wright's father, a former member of the Armed Forces currently serving in the police force, was highly disappointed by his son's behaviour. He strongly disapproved of his son's aggression upon a member of the police corps, the court was told.

The court noted that the man had not only filed an early guilty plea but had also cooperated with the police and had apologized for all he had done.

The magistrate condemned him to a jail term of eight months suspended for one year and a fine of €4,000.

Inspector Trevor Micallef prosecuted.

Lawyer Stefano Filletti was defence counsel.