What does the cryptic crossword clue "Policeman getting stoned, in a dreadful state (12)" mean?

The definition is "dreadful state". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). DI (synonym="Detective Inspector – policeman") + LAPIDATION (synonym="getting stoned – the punishment inflicted on St Stephen") = DILAPIDATION; definition: "a dreadful state" The answer is DILAPIDATION.

Policeman getting stoned, in a dreadful state (12)

Guardian Cryptic #29103 | 1 Across | 2023-06-22 flower

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