A Lurgan man who spat at police and was disorderly at Craigavon Area Hospital has been given the chance to “stay on the straight and narrow”.
Deferring the sentencing of the 38-year-old, the deputy district judge said: “If you stay out of trouble I will deal with you in a non-custodial manner, that is entirely down to you.”
John Paul Ward, of Ulster Street, appeared for sentencing on two counts of disorderly behaviour, assault on police and criminal damage at Craigavon Magistrates’.
Prosecution outlined that on May 6, at 4.30am, police received a report of an intoxicated male in Moyraverty Court, Craigavon.
Officers arrived to find this defendant standing in a front garden of a property, he appeared heavily intoxicated with slurred speech.
Ward refused to engage with police and told them to “f*** off”. He then spat several times narrowly missing the officers but did leave a trail of saliva on the trouser leg of one.
Once detained, the defendant became unresponsive at a point and was taken to Craigavon Area Hospital. Whilst en route Ward vomited and coughed up blood.
On arrival, the defendant spat in an ambulance triage and a face shield had to be put on him for the safety of others.
Ward attempted to spit on hospital equipment but the face shield prevented this.
Whilst at Craigavon Area Hospital, the defendant shouted and was disorderly despite warnings.
When cautioned for the offences, Ward replied “f*** off”.
Upon looking at the defendant’s record, Deputy District Judge Chris Holmes stated: “Mr Ward I am going to give you a chance to stay on the straight and narrow.”
Deferring sentencing for a year, he said: “If you stay out of trouble I will deal with you in a non-custodial manner, that is entirely down to you.”
The case was adjourned until February 4, 2022, for sentencing.
