A Co. Armagh man who was to contest a charge relating to a campaign of stalking a female over a four month period has changed his plea just as the case was to be heard.
John Richardson (47) from Derryhaw Road, Tynan engaged in conduct amounting to stalking of the complainant, causing her to suffer, alarm or substantial distress.
A further charge of pursuing a course of conduct amounting to harassment was dismissed given the admission to stalking.
Offending occurred on dates between August 15 and December 7, 2024.
No details surrounding the circumstances of the case were disclosed during the short hearing at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court where District Judge Michael Ranaghan said pre-sentence reports were required given, “the very serious nature of the offence.”
Richardson on continuing bail of £500 along with conditions including a ban on entering Portadown with the exception of travelling along Northway link road.
He is also excluded from entering all DV8 stores and must not contact the complainant and a number of other persons.
The case will return to court for sentencing on November 5.
