A Lurgan man who threw himself and cones at the gates of the local police station has been given a chance to “deal with underlying issues” as his sentencing was deferred.
The district judge told the 26-year-old that he was at a “crossroads” and he needed to choose which path he will follow.
Donald Fegan, of Lurgan Tarry, pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour and assault on police at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Court heard that on January 27, at around 12.30am, police observed the defendant walking in the middle of the road on Church Place, Lurgan.
Officers warned Fegan and he was given permission to move along.
Five minutes later, they received a report from security staff at Lurgan Police Station of a male running and throwing himself against the gates.
The defendant was then seen throwing police cones at the gate of the station.
As the police Landrover that responded pulled up Fegan threw another cone at the vehicle.
He threw a further cone at an officer who exited the Landrover, narrowly missing him.
The defendant was subsequently arrested and cautioned making no reply.
Defence barrister Aaron Thompson stated: “Mr Fegan’s most recent has been handed two suspended sentences, one of which is relevant to this case.”
Court heard the defendant had been given a suspended sentence on December 21 for disorderly behaviour and criminal damage.
Mr Thompson commented: “From his report, it appears he has a very realistic although pessimistic view of the likely outcome of today.
“He feels that is immediate custody and I know your worship will be very sympathetic to this acceptance.”
He said: “Mr Fegan is subject to probation at the moment and is doing very well.
“He has accepted that his alcohol consumption is directly linked to his emotional problems.”
Court heard the defendant still had 12 months of his 18 month probation order to run with Mr Thompson stating: “It would seem a shame for him to miss out.”
District Judge Bernie Kelly said: “Mr Fegan you are 25 years of age and you have medical issues, which we don’t need to go into.
“The problem is when you have these conditions you cannot take alcohol, your GP will tell you this.”
She continued: “If you continue on the road you are on, you will not just be in trouble with the law but also have serious health problems.”
District Judge Kelly stated: “However, there are some positives, you have voluntarily sought help from your GP about your alcohol problem and you are currently working with probation, who have recommended you for a course to deal with underlying issues.
“This point is a crossroads, you have to choose which path you will go down.”
Fegan had his sentencing deferred for six months, until September 25.
The defendant was told to continue working with probation, find employment and not come to police attention.
Distict Judge Kelly told him: “If you stick to these conditions I will find a way to sentence you without going immediately to prison.”
