Portadown man who assaulted his ex-partner is given seven months jail sentence
A Portadown man who assaulted his ex-partner and stole her mobile phone has been sentenced to seven months in prison.
Neil Robinson, 37, whose address was given as Obins Avenue, appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court via videolink from Maghaberry Prison, where it was said he had already served 142 days.
The court heard that on June 26, 2024 at 9.15pm, police received a report from a distraught female who said her ex-partner had been at the address and had made off.
Police attended the victim’s address. She reported that she was in bed when she heard the defendant shouting to be let into the house.
When the victim refused, the defendant climbed into the house through a bathroom window and an argument ensued.
The defendant then took the victim’s mobile phone before making off. The victim pursued the defendant, catching up with him before he pushed her against a wall.
A defence lawyer said the defendant “does have a criminal record, albeit not the worst record the court will see.”
He continued: “He has struggled with his mental health whilst in Maghaberry and he is keen to have the matter dealt with.
"He is remorseful for his actions.
"It is a situation where these two individuals should not be in each other’s company.
"He is sorry for the way he conducted himself.”
On the charge of burglary, District Judge Michael Ranaghan imposed a custodial sentence of seven months.
On the charge of common assault, he imposed a custodial charge of five months, to run concurrently with the seven-month sentence.
Mr Ranaghan also issued a restraining order for two years.