Custody warning for Ballycastle man

Patrick Gerard McGothigan (21), of Clare Road, appeared at North Antrim Magistrates Court in Coleraine last Wednesday and was given a two months custodial term, suspended for two years, in connection with an incident in which a man was assaulted around 12.30am on March 20 last year in the area of Quay Road/Ann Street in Ballycastle.

The court was told another man, who was already dealt with by the court, was involved in the assault along with McGothigan.

When spoken to by police McGothigan denied assaulting the injured party and claimed the injured party had initiated the situation and he was acting in self-defence.

A defence lawyer said McGothigan is determined to stay out of trouble.

Suspending the custodial sentence, District Judge Richard Wilson, told the defendant: “You had better behave yourself from now on. That is over your head so be warned, nothing more from now on in.”