‘Probation not a soft option,’ judge tells Scarva man

A 19 year old Scarva man put on probation for two years for assaulting police, has been warned that his sentence is not a “soft option.”

Andrew Trevor Patterson from Edenderry Road, appeared before Banbridge Court last Thursday.

A PPS prosecutor explained how police officers were called to Limewood, Banbridge on 29 September last.

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They found a highly intoxicated and aggressive Patterson and as they attempted to take control and remove him from the property, he tried to run off.

He struggled with police officers who brought him to the ground, but again he began to kick and lash out punching officers with several punches connecting.

Extra resources had to be called to bring Patterson under control.

He was arrested and interviewed the following morning when he denied having any recollection due to the level of intoxication.

None of the officers received any lasting injury.

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A solicitor said her client had a relevant record which was building up.

She said the incident occurred at Patterson’s brother’s home and he was brought under control in the front garden.

After considering a pre sentence report, District Judge Mr Copeland said, “You may well need to think back to the events of last September.

“Just because you are not going to prison does not mean this is a soft option.

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“Any assault on a police officer is serious and if I see you here again in the next two years for a similar offence you may well go to prison.

“You are indebted to your solicitor and the Probation Services.

“ I want you to do what you are told, when you are told and follow all instructions.”