A judge has deferred sentencing on a 23 year-old man who threatened and swore at council staff and police officers in front of young children at Magherafelt’s Christmas Market.
Joseph Hurley of Beechland Drive, Magherafelt appeared before the town’s Magistrates’ Court this morning charged with disorderly behaviour.
The court heard that on November 28 last year, police on foot patrol of Magherafelt town centre were alerted to a man who was refusing to leave a temporary bar at the town’s Christmas Market following requests from council staff.
Police entered the marquee and observed a male walk up and place his forehead on the forehead of a staff member and shout abuse at him.
The defendant appeared to be very aggressive and had his fists clenched, the court heard.
Officers approached Hurley and advised him that there were young children present.
The man walked off but then turned around and shouted: “I will put his f**king head in.”
He was once again warned about his behaviour by police but he then shouted to officers: “I will put your f**king heads in too.”
Defence solicitor, John Fahy told the court that the defendant has expressed ‘deep remorse’ for his actions.
He said: “There are a number of aggravating factors in this case, the time at which the offence occurred, his level of aggression and of course his record.
“He is the subject of a suspended prison sentence which may be imposed after the way he dealt with probation in the preparation of his pre-sentence report.
“He continues to struggle with alcohol but he has attended his first alcohol counselling session. He wants to put this behind him and he has expressed his deep remorse,” said Mr Fahy
Speaking directly to the defendant, District Judge Alan White said: “Probation have been very patient but because they are willing to offer you another opportunity, I am prepared to defer sentencing for six months. If you don’t comply with probation, custody is the only option,” warned Judge White.
The defendant will appear back before court for sentencing on November 23.
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