Man avoids jail after threatening police officer with gun emoji

A man who sent a police officer a threatening message including emojis of a bomb and a handgun has avoided jail.

Brian Tyler, from Illinois, pleaded guilty to sending a now-retired police officer, Tim Moore, a selfie over Facebook, along with emojis picturing a handgun, a bomb and a police officer.

Mr Moore had escorted Tyler from another person’s property on May 10, American newspaper the Journal Star reported.

In retaliation, Tyler sent the officer the snap in which he was making a vulgar gesture. 

In an accompanying message he used a swear word and included the police officer’s address. 

Prosecutors said the post was taken as a threat against Mr Moore. 

Tyler was sentenced to probation for 30 months, but the first month will include a curfew, along with other restrictions.

He must also undergo drug and alcohol abuse treatment.