A Portadown man who punched a female in a local bar after attempting to strike another male has been handed a suspended sentence.
The district judge said of the 53-year-old: “He is a bit long in the tooth to be getting on like this.”
Alan Graham, of Moeran Park, appeared for sentencing on two counts of common assault and disorderly behaviour in licensed premises at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Prosecution outlined that on June 29, at 11.56pm, police received a report of an assault at Jameson’s bar on Thomas Street in Portadown.
One female injured party identified the person who assaulted her as the defendant.
She stated that Graham had approached a male and began shouting at him. After being told to leave on several occasions the defendant swung at the male but missed.
Graham swung once more but this time connected with the left had side of the female’s face, leaving her with swelling around her eye.
When interviewed, the defendant made full admissions to the offences.
District Judge Stephen Keown commented: “He is a bit long in the tooth to be getting on like this.”
Defence barrister Scott McWhinney stated: “Quite correct. Since the incident given his addiction issues he had had medical issues which required surgery.
“He asks that the court consider probation. He accepts it can help him keep himself on the straight and narrow.”
District Judge Keown said: “This was a month after he was sentenced to a combination order. I struggle to see how I can deal with this and he cannot forever be on probation.
“It is clear he has been taking this opportunity. What I am saying is there is not much point extending probation as he needs to learn how to stand on his own two feet.”
Graham was sentenced to three months in prison suspended for two years.
