Tassagh man caught with drugs who became aggressive to police told he ‘just needs to grow up’

A Tassagh man who resisted police before being found in possession of cannabis on St Valentine’s Day must wait until next week to be sentenced.

Court heard that the 28-year-old was so aggressive that he had to be taken into custody in a cell van.

Kevin Barry Grimley, of Tullybrone Road, pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug, resisting arrest and disorderly behaviour at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Court heard that on February 14, last year, police attended Gosford Gardens, Markethill, at around 1.30am.

The- approached the defendant – who was hiding behind a parked car – to speak to him.

Grimley reacted aggressively towards the officers shouting and swearing at them.

He then struck the left shoulder of one constable and had to be taken to the ground.

The defendant continued to be violent despite being asked to calm down.

Officers located a quantity of cannabis resin in Grimley’s left trouser pocket.

Court heard that because of the defendant’s demeanour he had to be conveyed into police custody by a cell van.

Grimley was interviewed when he sobered up and gave what prosecution described as a no comment interview.

He told police that he had hidden from them as they approached but denied disorderly behaviour.

The defendant also claimed that he had not had the drugs on his person and that he did not smoke.

District Judge Rosie Watters stated: “This is not a very positive pre-sentence report. He shows no remorse, does not feel he did anything wrong.

“He blames the police for everything that happened, I feel he just needs to grow up.”

Defence counsel commented that Grimley had recently found a job with a local pet food company which was a “ray of hope and light”.

He added that two more serious allegations which the defendant had originally faced had now been dismissed.

District Judge Watters stated: “I am sure that was part of some deal; he is also on this list for other matters which are similar. I can see why you would want this dealt with today but I am going to adjourn the case”.

The case will return for sentencing on February 19.

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