A man who punched his brother in the ribs several times after the pair got into an argument has been handed a suspended prison sentence.
Martin Doran, 28, with an address of Fernvale Street in Belfast, got into an argument with his brother at his mother’s house in Lurgan.
Craigavon Magistrates’ Court heard that on Tuesday, February 6, 2023 at around 7pm, his brother John Doran phoned police stating that his brother, who was under the influence of drink or drugs, had assaulted him.
The court heard how the brothers had gotten into an argument and Martin had then punched John a number of times to the ribs.
The defendant made off in the direction of North Street in Lurgan and was subsequently located a short time later.
John reported soreness to police at the time but made efforts to withdraw his statement of complaint.
The defendant’s solicitor said that although his brother had made a statement of withdrawal and had repeatedly contacted his office, his client “wishes to accept his guilt and take responsibility for his actions”.
He added: “There had been a lot of drink taken on board in respect of both parties. He’s not trying to put that forward as any excuse but he has been very keen to have the matter dealt with as quickly as possible.”
District Judge Francis Rafferty said he would leave a sentence hanging over Doran’s head and imposed a three month prison sentence suspended for 18 months, adding that the offence was aggravated by way of domestic abuse.
