A teenager has been given one last chance to avoid a prison sentence after failing to comply with probation.
The 18-year-old’s barrister told court: “Sadly this is a young man from a large family. He has had difficulties in the past including being treated for anger management whilst in school.”
Che McGuinness, with an address in Dungannon, appeared for sentencing on common assault and criminal damage at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
It was heard that a pre-sentence report was before the court as the defendant had failed to attend with probation.
District Judge Paul Copeland stated: “This man isn’t doing very well, he has been convicted of imprisonable offences.”
Defence barrister Patrick Taggart said: “Sadly this is a young man from a large family. He has had difficulties in the past including being treated for anger management whilst in school.
“He did turn up with probation but was late. He is also in breach of an order in Dungannon for failing to comply with probation.”
District Judge Copeland stated: “Mr McGuinness, it is not for you to decide when things are to be done but I am going to give you a final opportunity, a last one, to engage with probation.”
The defendant was released to attend on December 10 for sentencing.
