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Jail sentence for man who tried to damage cash machine at Portadown store

Shop staff said defendant had been abusive towards them and they were put in fear of being assaulted

Craigavon Court

A man who attempted to damage a cash machine and verbally abused staff at a Portadown store has been sentenced to two months in prison.

The 34-year-old’s defence counsel informed the court: “As a result of this incident he had his licence recalled. He has been in custody since the date of this incident.”

Dean Michael Bryans, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to attempted criminal damage, two counts of common assault, possession of Class C, disorderly behaviour and resisting police at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court, via videolink from Maghaberry.

Prosecution outlined that on January 12, at 9pm, police received a report from the Super Shop in Thomas Street, Portadown, of a male attempting to damage a cash machine.

Officers spoke to staff who stated that the male, who was identified as the defendant, had entered the store on four occasions that day.

They said that Bryans had been abusive towards them and they were put in fear of being assaulted.

Police arrested the defendant and during a search two blue tablets, later found to be diazepam, were located in a trouser pocket.

Bryans struggled with officers throughout his arrest and made attempts to exit the police vehicle he had been placed in.

Defence counsel stated: “As a result of this incident he had his licence recalled. He has been in custody since the date of this incident.

“He was having an argument with his brother on the phone. He clearly put the staff in fear and he apologises for his actions.”

Deputy District Judge Gerard Trainor sentenced Bryans to two months in prison for the offences.

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