AN Essex policeman faces an internal investigation into his conduct after being found guilty of assaulting a Felixstowe tug boat captain who later died.

AN Essex policeman faces an internal investigation into his conduct after being found guilty of assaulting a tug boat captain who later died.

Ronnie O'Reilly, 48, who was found to be suffering from heart disease, was at his home in Clacton in June last year when Pc Gary Jay heard him disciplining his son from outside.

During the five-day trial at Southend Magistrates' Court, the district judge was told that Jay had entered Mr O'Reilly's house and assaulted both him and his wife, Moira, 43.

Mr O'Reilly collapsed during the incident and later died.

This morning, 41-year-old Jay was handed a three month suspended prison sentence and was ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service.

He was found guilty on two counts of assault and the incident will now be reviewed against the Police Misconduct Regulations in order to identify any breaches of the codes of conduct by Pc Jay.

After the verdict, investigating officer Detective Inspector Marion Tyson said: “We have no hesitation in helping to prosecute those who act unlawfully and who don't conform to the organisation's high standards.

“Pc Jay did not carry out his duties in a professional and lawful manner. Once again, we extend our deepest condolences to Moira O'Reilly and her family following the tragic death of Ronnie.”

Jay was also ordered to pay £2,000 prosecution costs.