A Newry man who was aggressive towards police after over-indulging at his brother’s wedding has been conditionally discharged for 12 months.
The 40-year-old’s solicitor told court: “His record is 13 pages. I am almost 100% certain that the vast majority are as a result of his over-indulgence in alcohol.”
Brian Ward, of Barcroft Park, pleaded guilty to possession of Class B, disorderly behaviour and attempted criminal damage at the city’s Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Prosecution outlined that on May 27, at 9.15pm, police were called to an incident at Barcroft Park in Newry.
Upon arrival, officers observed the defendant, who was intoxicated and acting in an aggressive manner, shouting in the street.
Ward was arrested and placed in the back of a police vehicle. Whilst inside he began to punch and push his head against the window and interior.
Handcuffs and limb restraints were subsequently applied as he was then transferred to a riot van.
During a search, police also located a small quantity of cannabis on Ward’s person.
Later, when interviewed, the defendant told police that he had no recollection of the incident.
Defence solicitor Peter Hearty stated: “Intoxication is the only reason for it. That day he had attended his brother’s wedding and unfortunately he had over-indulged to a large extent.
“When this man does not consume alcohol, he does not trouble the police and he does not trouble the court. Alcohol is at the root of this man’s difficulties.”
He continued: “His record is 13 pages. I am almost 100% certain that the vast majority are as a result of his over-indulgence in alcohol.
“Proof of that is the last entry for which he received a conditional discharge, that was two days before Christmas.”
Addressing the defendant, District Judge Eamonn King said: “What are we going to do with you? Any suggestions? You have a record of 108 previous convictions. You were last in court in January for assault on police.
“You are 40 years of age. If you keep going at this rate I will not be able to lift this record in 10 years time.”
Ward was handed a conditional discharge for 12 months and was ordered to pay a fine of £420, along with the offender’s levy of £15.
