Bellaghy plasterer kicked man lying unconscious outside nightclub

Joseph McErlean, 19, of Killyberry Road, Bellaghy, was also ordered to pay the injured party £300 compensation.

McErlean admitted charges of assault causing actual bodily harm to Luke Smith, and disorderly behaviour at Rainey Street car park on April 6 last year.

Imposing the penalties, District Judge Alan White remarked that the injured party sustained significant injuries.

A prosecuting barrister told court the incident started inside the nightclub after another party accused the injured man of staring at his girlfriend. He said those involved were ushered outside by door staff where the melee continued.

Pleading for leniency, a defence lawyer said McErlean had been assaulted inside the club.

“He deeply regrets the matter,” said the lawyer, who stressed that McErlean had no criminal record. “He comes from a good background and family,” he added.