A Banbridge man who assaulted a woman and damaged property belonging to the ambulance service has been convicted in his absence in court.
Lewis Rollston (22) – with an address on the Loughbrickland Road – was due to appear in person to contest charges of common assault and criminal damage in Banbridge Magistrates’ Court.
However, upon mentioning the case in court his defence counsel said he was in “some difficulty” and just been on the phone to his instructing solicitor who informed him that Rollston “may have had some misunderstanding about the time”.
Rollston was charged with assaulting a female complainant on October 6, 2024 and of damaging a pulse oximeter cable belonging to Northern Ireland Ambulance Service on the same date.
He had previously pleaded not guilty to the offences.
Due to the “seriousness of this case” counsel informed Deputy District Judge Rea that it may warrant a pre-sentence report.
Counsel also requested that the judge consider submissions and reports – including a medical report – before making a determination on the case.
Judge Rea informed counsel: “I have had benefit of the medical reports and the careful submissions of counsel and I am satisifed that the offences are made out on the papers and the medical evidence provides compelling mitigation.
“There will be a conviction for both offences.”
Judge Rea did agree on the need for a pre-sentence report and confirmed the defendant’s address and details.
Counsel asked that the pre-sentence report focus on Rollston’s suitability for a community based order in regards to his medical condition.
The judge agreed and adjourned the matter until September 3 to allow time for the pre-sentence report to be prepared.
