Punched man in the face outside school

John David Wilson (39), Beech Meadows, Waringstown, was sentenced to two months in custody, suspended for two years, for unlawful assault on June 4 last year.

The court heard that the injured party contacted the police saying he had been assaulted while dropping his child off at King’s Park Primary School.

He said he had been sitting in his car when the defendant approached him and punched him on the face.

Police spoke to Wilson who admitted speaking to the injured party about ongoing issues between both families but denied any physical contact.

A solicitor representing Wilson said he accepted striking the injured party, adding that there was an emotive background to the case.

District Judge, Mrs Bernie Kelly, said there were very few records that could surpass that of the defendant.

The solicitor said he had spent a considerable time in custody through Crown Court convictions.

He added that Wilson had a difficulty with compulsive behaviour and had assaulted a man he had been told had assaulted his son.

The solicitor explained that the defendant was working in London and it was normally his wife who did the school run but on this occasion he did it and came across the injured party.

Judge Kelly told Wilson he had a ‘horrendous record’ which should make him more of a chastened individual.

“It was about time you started to mind your own business,” she added.

The judge said Wilson had a bad, bad record for offences of violence and ruled the offence so serious there was only one punishment she could impose but she would suspend the sentence.