A Lurgan man who bit an officer on the knee and told police “you are all dead” must wait until next month to learn his fate.
Adjourning the 23-year-old’s case, the district judge commented: “His behaviour is appalling. I have long said that sentencing is not an a la carte menu but he has never had the benefit of any form of community order.”
Paul McBride, of Hill Street, pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour, assault on police and criminal damage at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Prosecution outlined that on October 17, at 12.40am, police received a report of a male “going mad” outside a property on Hill Street in Lurgan.
Upon arrival, officers observed this defendant who made off in the direction of George Street.
As police approached McBride he was volatile and attempted to headbutt one of the officers. Whilst being restrained he then bit the same constable on the left knee.
During his arrest, the defendant continued to shout phrases such as “Stephen Carroll got one in the head” and “you are all dead”.
In the cell van, McBride spat on the floor and had to be taken to Craigavon Area Hospital for assessment.
Defence barrister Damien Halloran informed court that his client had wished to be sentenced without the preparation of a presentence report.
District Judge Bernie Kelly stated: “His behaviour is appalling. I have long said that sentencing is not an a la carte menu but he has never had the benefit of any form of community order.”
The case was adjourned until February 11 for sentencing.
