POLICE responded to a report of a man walking down Whitebirk Drive with a brick in his hand.

Blackburn magistrates heard Keiron Anthony McKillop, who was high on spice - the former legal high.

He became abusive when he was confronted by officer who used Parva spray to bring the incident to a speedy end.

McKillop, 25, of De Lacy House, Preston New Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to using threatening behaviour and possession of spice.

He was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison and ordered to pay £115 victim surcharge.

Parveen Akhtar, prosecuting, said officers were called to Whitebirk Drive at 6pm after members of the public reported a man walking down the road with a brick in his hand.

"There were people around and the officers wanted to achieve a swift and safe resolution," said Miss Akhtar.

"The officer got out of the car and told the defendant to drop the brick and show him his hands.

"His response was abusive and the officers felt there was a risk to them and to the members of the public who had gathered."

McKillop told police he used spice on a daily basis.

Miss Akhtar said there was an opposed application for a criminal behaviour order which was adjourned until September 7.

Catherine Fell, defending, said the police did not take any chances.

"There was no stand off or anything like that and the incident was over in seconds," said Miss Fell.

"The police did not take any chances and just went in and did what they had to do.

"My client claims he had been attacked prior to this incident and had the brick for self defence."

Miss Fell said her client's use of spice on a daily basis prevented him engaging with the mental health team.