A Lurgan man who assaulted police officers after calling them to assist with his son’s behaviour has been ordered to complete 18 months probation and 90 hours community service.
Defence counsel stated that the 41-year-old “reached out to police for help, he would say that he lashed out because of the way his son was being restrained, however, he accepts his behaviour was completely unacceptable”.
Neil Hull, of Orient Circle, pleaded guilty to four counts of assault on police, criminal damage, attempted criminal damage and resisting police at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, via videolink from Maghaberry.
Prosecution outlined that on October 30, the defendant called 999 reporting that his son was going mad in the house, attacking and throwing things at him.
Court was told police arrived shortly after 1am, at which time a struggle ensued in the living room between officers and the defendant’s son.
Hull then got involved, assaulting two police officers in the process, and was subsequently arrested.
Whilst being conveyed to custody, the defendant’s behaviour was described as agitated and erratic. He damaged fixtures and fittings in the police vehicle by kicking them whilst en route.
Then on November 16, police were called to an address in Lurgan in relation to a domestic incident.
On arrival, officers observed Hull outside the property, he was acting aggressively and attempting to gain access.
Police had to restrain the defendant but he continued to struggle, jabbing at the chest of one officer.
Hull was moved toward the police vehicle. He continued to struggle and attempted to headbutt another officer and then kicked the door of the vehicle whilst being placed inside.
Defence counsel stated: “The background to this offending is that Mr Hull’s son has addiction issues and for the past 18 months he has been trying to get him some help.
“Things came to a head in the autumn winter time of last year….Mr Hull reached out to police for help, he would say that he lashed out because of the way his son was being restrained, however, he accepts his behaviour was completely unacceptable”.
She added that her client had apologised for his actions following the incidents.
Deputy District Judge Greg McCourt sentenced Hull to a combination order consisting of 18 months probation and 90 hours of community service.
