CS spray used on defendant

Walter Michael Holding (48), Oak Grange, Waringstown, had admitted disorderly behaviour and making a threat to kill at Market Street, Lurgan, on November 22 last year.

The case had been adjourned from a previous court so that a short sentence report could be obtained and Holding appeared last Wednesday for sentencing.

His son had also been involved in the Lurgan incident and he had been fined for offences which he admitted.

District Judge, Mrs Bernie Kelly, said there were ‘horrendous comments’ made and regarded this as a hate crime. But she decided to adjourn the case until Friday so that another judge could deal with the matter.

When the case was heard on Friday the court was told that the prosecution outlined the case as a hate crime.

The prosecutor added that during Wednesday’s proceedings the judge had referred to the ‘son’s homophobic tendencies’ and that the judge who was dealing with the case should be aware of that. She went on to say that on November 22 at about 1.45am police were called to a bar after a person refused to leave the premises.

There was a group of males outside who were being unruly and they were warned about their behaviour.

Around 2am police were driving past when Holding attempted to open the door of the police vehicle. There was a confrontation and the defendant tried to walk into police but was pushed back.

CS spray was used and Holding put to the ground. He made threats to kill police and called them ‘Fenians’. When interviewed he denied making any threats and said he was calm and reasonable that night.

Deputy District Judge, Mr Liam McStay, told Holding it was exceptional his son had received fines in this case.

Imposing 120 hours community service the judge said: “You need to think about your comments in the future.”