Jail terms for Londonderry pair linked to terrorism

Detectives from Serious Crime Branch have acknowledged the sentencing of two Derry men who pleaded guilty to having a note linked to terrorism.
By Olga Cathers
Published 3rd Jul 2015, 16:42 BST
Editorial image.Editorial image.
Editorial image.

Thomas Ashe Mellon (39), of Rathmore Road and William McDonnell (28) from Culaduff Gardens, had pleaded guilty to having the note in June last year. McDonnell was searched on his way into Maghaberry prison on June 5 to visit an inmate.

The note was written by Mellon on cigarette papers joined together and wrapped in cling film.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Police have issued a photo of the note and a redacted transcript of its contents along with images of the two defendants. Mellon was sentenced to two years and four months, McDonnell was given 12 months.

Both sentences are to be served half in jail, followed by half on licence. Both defendants will also be subject to a Terrorist Notification Order for 10 years which helps monitor their movements.