A Portadown man with 28 prior convictions for public order offences has been given a suspended jail term.
David Braniff, 24, pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday via videolink from Maghaberry.
Court heard that on November 25, at around 12.30am, police on patrol at High Street, Portadown, spotted the defendant standing in the middle of the street.
As officers approached Braniff kicked out at the police vehicle.
It was noted that the defendant appeared highly intoxicated as he shouted and swore in the street.
He refused to desist after being cautioned by police and was subsequently arrested.
Defence solicitor Conor Downey said there was a “cause for concern” as the defendant had a live suspended sentence which he had been given in November.
Court heard this referred to him damaging a table and other furniture at the family home.
Mr Downey said that Braniff had been in custody since December 8 after a breach of bail.
He added that the defendant had suffered a brain injury as an infant which had been coupled with alcohol and substance abuse.
Deputy District Judge Philip Mateer stated: “You have a whole series of public order offences. For someone so young you have 28 public order convictions.”
He added: “I am going to give you another suspended sentence, so the onus is on you to stay out of trouble.”
Braniff was sentenced to five months in prison suspended for 18 months.
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