An Armagh teenager who tried to settle previous grievances with another male by throwing a hammer at him has been sentenced to 100 hours community service.
The 18-year-old’s barrister told court: “This is a young man who had difficulty in the past with his education, despite the support of a large family.”
Che McGuinness, of Mullacreevie Park, appeared for sentencing on common assault and criminal damage at the city’s Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Prosecution outlined that on March 13, the defendant assaulted the injured party in the Lonsdale Road car park in Armagh.
There had been previous incidents involving the two and McGuinness took matters into his own hands by throwing a hammer at the injured party, who was left with bruising to the back of his leg.
The defendant fled and later broke a window at a property connected to the injured party.
When arrested, McGuinness denied all matters but in the end pleaded to the offences.
Defence barrister Patrick Taggart stated: “Probation were under the impression he had pleaded guilty to four counts, that is not the case and these charges before the court were never contested.
“It is lucky that there was not more serious injury and there has been no re-occurrence since this incident. He turned 18 just months after this offence occurred.”
He continued: “This is a young man who had difficulty in the past with his education, despite the support of a large family.
“He has been working pro bono for a tyre fitting business to get trained. He is currently undertaking probation but that is to be taken to Dungannon court due to missed meetings.”
Deputy District Judge Liam McStay said: “Mr McGuinness, these offences you pleaded guilty to, I think the assault is bad enough but it is made much worse by you going on to break a window.
“Although it must be said that I do have some sympathy for you on a personal level given your background.”
The deputy district judge offered the defendant an option of either 100 hours of community service or a suspended sentence.
McGuinness consented to community service and was ordered to complete 100 hours.
In addition, the defendant was also ordered to pay compensation of £100 to the injured party.
