'˜CSI' linked man's blood to car damage

Eamon Murphy (19), of Bleerick Drive, Antrim, was arrested after a blood sample found on one of the vehicles damaged was matched to him.

Antrim Magistrates Court heard that police were called on March 20 after a report of man striking the rear window of a vehicle with his elbow, before crossing the road and striking another.

Murphy was arrested following forensic analyis of blood at the scene.

The court was told that Murphy was arrested for a second offence on May 11, after he made a call to police saying he was “going mad”.

When police arrived, Murphy was being restrained by family members but lashed out as police went to handcuff him.

He kicked out at one officer causing swelling and bruising to her arm. He kicked another officer on the leg, causing no injury.

Defence barrister Aaron Thompson said there was “no back story” to the offending other than “wanton violence”.

He said Murphy was a young man with “many difficulties”, adding that his client is on anti-psychotic medication.

Referring to a pre-sentence report from probation, Mr Thompson said it was clear there were mental health and emotional issues.

“He lashes out when he cannot deal with his emotions,” Mr Thompson added.

District Judge Alan White noted that Murphy has a very limited record and said “people are worth one chance”.

He said he was prepared to place Murphy on probation for 18 months and see if he was “prepared to accept the help that is offered”.

Murphy was also ordered to do 100 hours of community service.

He was also ordered to pay a total of £525 compensation for the damage to the vehicles.