A Craigavon man accused of damaging a defibrillator in a hospital setting has been warned that “there’s only one outcome” if he decides to contest the charge.
The case of 27-year-old James Knox, from Meadowbrook, was opened at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
While details of the alleged incident were not relayed to the court, the charge sheet indicates that the piece of equipment, belonging to the Southern Health Trust, was damaged on November 9.
A constable said he was able to connect Knox to the charge.
And while the case was adjourned for two weeks in order to ascertain the defendant’s attitude, District Judge Michael Rangahan, addressing the defence, warned: “Have a very strong word with your client. This occurred in a hospital and involved a defibrillator.
“Obviously it’s not a matter of guilt at this stage but he needs to be very strongly spoken to. There’s only one likely outcome if he contests this matter down the line.
“This is a very serious offence.”
Knox was freed on his own bail of £300 and ordered to return on December 20 where he will pleaded guilty or not guilty to the charge.
