Suspended jail sentence for Co Tyrone man who threw hammer at pharmacy door
A Co Tyrone man who threw a hammer at the door of a chemist shop in Coalisland smashing the glass, was given a four month jail sentence, suspended for two years, at Dungannon Magistrates Court on Friday.
Dermott Martin Perry, aged 44, from Torrent Close in Coalisland, was convicted of criminal damage and possessing an offensive weapon, the hammer, on August 13 last year.
Sentencing him, District Judge Francis Rafferty remarked that Perry has “very serious mental health issues” but they did not give him permission to commit criminal offences.
Prosecuting counsel said it was reported to police by O’Neill’s Pharmacy that on August 12 it closed at 6pm and when a member of staff returned at 8 am following day, she noticed damage to the door and a hammer lying on the ground.
She said CCTV footage for 5 am on August 13, showed the defendant under the influence walking past the premises and throwing the hammer. The lawyer said he then walked off as if nothing had happened.
When interviewed by police, Perry said he could not remember the incident. Counsel added that the damage amounted to £1,350 although they did not have an invoice.
Defence counsel explained the defendant is addicted to prescription medications. He pointed out that Perry did have a record and is in breach of a suspended sentence.
Judge Rafferty said he would not activate the suspended sentence, but ordered Perry to pay £200 compensation to the pharmacy. He allowed him 26 weeks to pay.