A North Wales Police constable rejected a prosecution claim that he had lost his temper with a man and used “extreme violence.” PC Richard Williams, 43, told a jury at Caernarfon Crown Court today: I feel justified in the actions I have taken.” In evidence he claimed Steven Clark had gone towards an officer colleague at Porthmadog, in May 2023, in what looked like a “rugby tackle.” PC Williams, who denies intentional strangulation and assault causing actual bodily harm, told the jury that he had been an officer for 21 years. He claimed PC Einir Williams “went falling backwards quite heavily on to the grass". You can sign up for all the latest court stories here. He alleged that Mr Clark was on top of her outside a house. “My concern was for Einir. I was acting in her defence,” the policeman insisted. He dragged Mr Clark away: “He seemed to be very strong and was pulling away from me. I’m thinking he’s under the influence of drugs.” Questioned by his KC Simon Kealey, PC Williams maintained he hadn’t intentionally strangled Mr Clark. “He’s just assaulted my colleague,” PC Williams said. He had Mr Clark in a headlock to “control” him on the ground. “I’m in a state of shock at this time. He’s assaulted my colleague. This is the first time someone has assaulted a female colleague of mine in my presence.” He said Mr Clark was resisting him. The PC made “little, short punches” with his weaker arm as “distraction strikes”. The Taser-armed officer said he “couldn’t realistically use” his personal protective equipment which also included a baton and spray. He said it appeared his colleague had a “nasty” fall. He said: ”I thought she was out of it.” Asked about saying Mr Clark was going to “get launched in the van,” the policeman accepted "It’s a poor phrase to use.” He added :”I didn’t have any intention about throwing him into the van.” The jury has heard that no further action was taken against Mr Clark after he was arrested on suspicion of common assault. The trial continues. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone