A Newry man who was found in possession of diazepam and a hammer after damaging his parents’ door has been ordered to pay a fine of £550.
The 24-year-old’s barrister told court: “He was going through a difficult time with his mental health. This was only exacerbated by his use of Class C drugs….he instructs that this had been a wake up call for him.”
Ciaran McParland, of Ardcarn Park, pleaded guilty to possession of Class C, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and criminal damage at the city’s Magistrates’ Court.
Prosecution outlined that on January 25, police received a report from the defendant’s parents that he had been kicking and banging on their door in Newry.
Upon arrival, officers noted damage to the door and although no statement was taken, an account was recorded on police bodycams.
McParland’s parents expressed concern for their son’s mental health and he was located near the property by officers.
During a search, six diazepam tablets and a hammer were located on the defendant’s person.
When interviewed, McParland accepted that he had caused the damage adding that it was not his intention to do so but he had got “angry”.
Defence barrister Stephen Campbell stated: “He has nothing previous, he was entirely candid with police which is what has led these matters to be before the court.
“He was going through a difficult time with his mental health. This was only exacerbated by his use of Class C drugs….he instructs that this had been a wake up call for him.”
District Judge Eamon King ordered that McParland pay a fine of £550, along with the offender’s levy of £15.
