A Markethill man who assaulted two officers after they conveyed him to hospital over health concerns has been sentenced to five months in prison.
Court heard the 31-year-old was arrested after he was found hiding in a wardrobe at a property whilst on bail.
Sean Anthony Taylor, of Bunker Hill, appeared for sentencing on two counts of assault on police, criminal damage and disorderly behaviour at Newry Magistrates’ Court.
Defence barrister Bobbie Rea stated that the defendant was currently serving a six month sentence and was due to be released in May.
Prosecution outlined that on November 6, police received a 999 call to an address in Newry, and when officers arrived there was no answer at the door of the property.
Police were about to force their way in, when they were granted entry by an occupant.
During a search of the house, Taylor was discovered hiding in a cupboard and was subsequently arrested as he was on bail.
Due to the defendant having breathing problems police conveyed him to Daisy Hill hospital and whilst there Taylor became loud and began shouting.
He then injured the hand of one officer and lunged at another, before spitting on a wall at the hospital.
Mr Rea stated: “To say this is a troubled young man would be an understatement.
“I would ask your worship, at best, not to interfere with his current sentence.”
He added: “The applicant knows all too well, this is not a community disposal case as it has clearly crossed the custody threshold.”
District Judge Mark McGarrity stated: “I give him credit for his guilty plea but unfortunately he has a very bad record for this type of offence.
“I am also taking into account the health issues noted in the probation report.”
Taylor was sentenced to five months in prison for the offence.
