Paul Gibson, a magistrate on the South-East Essex bench, has been formally warned for misconduct after he threatened to give a defendant a 'good hiding' during a court hearing. The incident occurred when the defendant, who was shouting abuse and filming the proceedings, provoked Gibson, leading to his outburst. Gibson acknowledged that he 'let himself down badly' and stated that his comment was intended for his fellow magistrates rather than the defendant. An investigation by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) concluded that his actions constituted misconduct, resulting in a sanction of formal advice, the least severe penalty available. Senior judge Mr. Justice Keehan and Lord Chancellor David Lammy approved this sanction, noting Gibson's previously unblemished service record. The JCIO did not disclose details about the court or the nature of the defendant's offense.