Dunmurry man appears at Lisburn court after being involved in incident at vape shop

David McLaughlin, aged 28, whose address was given as Springbank Close in Dunmurry, appeared before Lisburn Magistrates Court on Thursday, March 13, charged with criminal damage, attempted criminal damage, and common assault.

The court heard that on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 4.50pm police responded to a report from a vape shop in Dunmurry.

It was reported that the defendant had been refused service in the shop due to being verbally abusive.

He then attempted to damage the shop window by punching it.

It was also stated that he grabbed another man and pulled him into the street.

Once outside, it was reported that the defendant then punched a car belonging to a third party.

The defendant was arrested and during interview he made no comment.

Defence told the court: “He does accept responsibility for his actions but he remembers very little about the incident. He was in the throes of a mental health crisis.

"He has longstanding issues with his mental health. He has undergone in-patient treatment and spent four months in hospital. He is in an assisted living facility and that has brought stability to his life.”

Deputy District Judge Austin Kennedy imposed a probation order for a period of 12 months.

During sentencing Mr Kennedy told the defendant: “Probation do try to help you with any issues you have. It is not an easy option.”