A Lurgan teenager who threw a brick at a window in order to gain access to get some sleep and a shower has been handed a suspended prison sentence.
Court previously heard that the 18-year-old had six convictions relating to damaging property in the last three years.
Jay Mikvey, of Queen Street, appeared for sentencing on criminal damage and wrongfully entering premises at Craigavon Magistrates’ last Wednesday.
Defence barrister Conor Lunny commented that this was the defendant’s “first foray in the adult court” and pre-sentence report would have been best for all involved but Mikvey had failed to attend with probation.
Prosecution outlined that on August 14, at 11.15am, police were called to an address at Moylinn House in Craigavon after a window had been damaged by a former tenant.
Officers spoke to staff who explained that the defendant had left a note and text a member of staff apologising for the act.
At 7pm, Mikvey presented himself at Lurgan police station and was arrested for the offences.
During interview, the defendant said he wanted to gain access to get some sleep and a shower.
Prosecution informed the court the cost of damages was estimated at £550.
Mr Lunny stated: “The case is he was evicted, which rendered him homeless, and he tried to break back in; he since moved to Housing Executive accommodation but failed to respond with regards to a report.
“On the flip side, there seems to be an improvement he has found employment.”
He added: “He had not expected the cost of damage to be so high but he is prepared to pay it back.”
District Judge Mark McGarrity said: “You are entitled to credit for your guilty plea, but the options available to me are limited and given your poor record this has crossed the custody threshold.”
Mikvey was sentenced to three months in prison suspended for two years and ordered to pay compensation of £550, within 26 weeks.
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