A woman who threatened to punch a paramedic when he tried to stop her taking her own life has been told to pay £200.

Maysie Swain appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday after admitting a charge of common assault, possession of a blade, and obstructing a railway.

Passing sentence, district judge Anthony Calloway told Swain the paramedic was “there to help you, he was not there to be punched”.

Prosecuting, Anisa Alrubaie said how the 22-year-old caused disruption at Winchester railway station in January.

She told the court: “British Transport Police received a call reporting that the defendant was threatening suicide... and the trains had to be stopped.

“Police arrived and she refused to engage, but she did eventually engage and was removed.”

Five days later, Swain of Bower Close, Southampton, was found on a bridge aiming to take her own life.

“A paramedic from South Central Ambulance was called and the defendant was found leaning over the railings of the bridge,” Ms Alrubaie said.

She added: “The paramedic said he was not going to let her jump off, and she told him she had a razor blade in her bra.

“This was later found by the police. The defendant’s behaviour escalated rapidly and she threatened to punch the paramedic.”

The court heard police later arrived.

Mitigating, Barry Keel said Swain was “clearly struggling with her mental health” when these incidents took place in January.

Her wellbeing has improved since moving into supported living,

“She accepts she threatened to punch the paramedic”, Mr Keel added.

Swain was given a 12 month community order and must complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

She must also pay £200 compensation to the paramedic.

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