A man who assaulted police whilst being arrested for a breach of bail has been sentenced to community service.
Court heard the 22-year-old did have a live conditional discharge at the time of the offence, but the judge made no order on this.
Eamonn Jordan, of Harberton Park, Belfast, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault on police, resisting police and attempted criminal damage at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Court heard that on July 12, at around 9pm, police were contacted by a hostel in Armagh about a reported missing person, the defendant, returning of his own accord.
When officers arrived, they suspected that Jordan had consumed alcohol which was a violation of his bail conditions.
A preliminary breath test resulted in a fail and the defendant was arrested.
Whilst he was being taken to Lurgan custody suite Jordan punched the window of the vehicle and had to be restrained.
The defendant assaulted officers before he was placed in a cell van.
In the van, he then began to headbutt the vehicle.
Whilst in custody Jordan spat and kicked an officer who was observing the defendant’s condition.
Once more Jordan had to be restrained.
Defence barrister Emma Duffy stated: “My client is extremely embarrassed by his actions which were entirely fuelled by alcohol.”
She added: “He appreciates that this needs to be addressed and consents to the recommendations of community service or probation.”
Ms Duffy concluded: “Mr Jordan apologies to anyone affected by his actions and endeavours not to repeat this again.”
Court heard that at the time of the offence the defendant was subject to a conditional discharge.
District Judge Paul Copeland stated: “I am going to make no order on the conditional discharge on this occasion and I consider community service to be appropriate.”
He added: “You need to notice that your record is mounting including a conditional discharge for anti-social behaviour once again targeted at police.”
Jordan was sentenced to complete 150 hours of community service with District Judge Copeland commenting that work will be found for the defendant in South Belfast.
