A Waringstown man who assaulted another man at a Co Armagh bar on Christmas Eve last year has been sentenced to 150 hours of community service.
The district judge commented that he wouldn’t want the 53-year-old coming at him.
Walter Michael Holding, of Oak Grange, appeared for sentencing on common assault and disorderly behaviour in licensed premises at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Prosecution outlined that on Christmas Eve of last year, at around 9pm, the injured party had been out drinking with his mother and friends at Fa’ Joe’s Bar on William Street, Lurgan.
He turned around after hearing a glass smashing. He was then approached by the defendant who said: “What is your f****** problem?”
Holding then proceeded to punch the injured party on the left side of his upper neck before leaving the premises.
Later when interviewed about the incident, the defendant made no comment.
Defence solicitor Shane O’Neill stated: “I ask that he is given credit for his early plea. There were no serious injuries and he did show remorse during interview.”
District Judge Steven Keown commented: “I wouldn’t want Mr Holding coming at me”.
Mr O’Neill said: “He has mental health issues and problems with alcohol. He does have a record but the majority of that was for acts of dishonesty and nothing in the last 15 years.”
District Judge Keown stated: “He has clearly shown he can stay out of trouble. The court is fully aware of the problems he is dealing with.
“However, the court takes a dim view on unprovoked attacks like this.”
Holding was ordered to complete 150 hours of community service.
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