Defendant's remarks 'outrageous'

Stefan Hugh Lynch (20), from Sugar Island Road, Craigavon, admitted three charges of disorderly behaviour at Thursday's sitting of Craigavon Magistrates Court.

The court was told that on May 20 Lynch had been parked with a group of youths at Brownlow Leisure Centre.

He shouted "Up the RA" at a passing police patrol and mimicked the actions of shooting a rifle. He then shouted "Up Stevie Carroll"

On August 15 at Brownlow Terrace he told police to "F off" and on August 21 at 1.10am at Clanrolla Park police investigating a report of an altercation found the defendant lying barechested being restrained by family members. He told police to "F off".

When cautioned he replied "Tiocfaidh r l".

Defending solicitor Conor Downey said his client apologises to the court and the officers about his remarks and behaviour.

He went on: "Alcohol played a major part in respect of all these incidents."

He said his family had informed him while his behaviour continued they did not want him in the family home and had left him in custody - his first time in custody.

Mr Downey added Lynch comes from a very good background, his father is well known and has a great level of respect in the community.

The defendant's father, he said, is a full time electrician and will now take his son on with him.

Mr Downey said Lynch had shown genuine signs of remorse: "Your Worship may wish to take a risk and allow him to attend probation courses."

District Judge Alan White told the defendant: "What you were shouting, particularly in May was disgraceful and disgusting. A lot of people have lost their lives and for people to treat it as a subject of abuse is outrageous."

He said while he accepted the behaviour had been caused by alcohol it was no excuse.

He went on: "You are very lucky you have a family taking such an attitude. If you come back for behaviour like that you will go into custody for longer.

"Accept the help of probation and your family and catch yourself on."

He sentenced Lynch to 12 months probation with the condition he attend alcohol management and anger management courses and he warned: "If you come back you will be in severe difficulties."