One punch assault leads to suspended prison sentence

Shane Harte (23), Garland Avenue, Lurgan, admitted unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on a man on July 27 last year.

He was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for three years, and ordered to pay £400 compensation to the injured party.

The court heard that just after 1am the injured party was walking along William Street in Lurgan when he was punched in the face by Harte who was known to him.

The victim fell to the ground and he suffered a fractured right cheekbone, bleeding to his eye and bruising.

It was an unprovoked assault and when interviewed Harte admitted the assault and regretted what happened.

The case had been adjourned from a previous court so that a pre-sentence report could be obtained.

A barrister representing Harte said there were two previous cautions on his record and that alcohol featured in these offences.

She added that the offence did cross the custody threshold but it was a one punch case and not a sustained attack.

District Judge, Mr Mervyn Bates, said it was a serious matter because there was serious injury to the other party.

He added that although it was a singe punch it could mean that someone could die.