Thomas Anthony Carlin, 43, was charged with contempt of court after he threatened to arrest Lord Justice Gillen during a case in which he was representing himself.

The unexpected move prompted security and court staff to remove Mr Carlin from the courtroom.

At the start of proceedings, Mr Carlin claimed he “believed a crime had been committed” by the judge.

He also said that court workers who intervened at the time had “obstructed me in the execution of my duty”.

However, the Lord Chief Justice, Sir Declan Morgan, said there was no evidence to support Mr Carlin’s claims and his “purported use of the powers of a constable was an abuse”.

Delivering his judgment, Sir Declan said: “He is sentenced to a period of imprisonment of three months.

“If he applies to this court after 28 days to apologise for his conduct we will remit the remainder of the term.”