Restraining order for Derrytrasna man

Twenty six year old Anthony Martin Smith, of Lisnagade Mews, Derrytrasna, was also put on probation for two years for breach of a non molestation order on August 2.

A condition of probation is that he takes part in the integrated domestic abuse programme.

Smith was also sentenced to five months in prison, suspended for two years, for threatening to destroy or damage property on July 22.

The court heard that on July 22 at an address in Derrymacash he threatened to kick in the front door of the injured party’s house.

She was extremely terrified and hid upstairs before calling the police.

The defendant had been in a relationship with her for six years and he was the father of her two children.

On August 2 at the same address the injured party said the defendant had called and handed her a letter at the front door. He was in breach of a non molestation order.

In court the prosecution counsel asked for a restraining order to be imposed.

Mr Hugo Marley, representing the defendant, handed in to court the letter Smith had handed to his ex-girlfriend.

He said his client was suffering from ‘emotional turmoil’ and the letter showed his love for his former partner and his great love for his two children.

Mr Marley added that Smith now appreciated the issue of contact had to go through the courts and he could not go near his former partner.

Imposing the restraining order District Judge, Mr Mervyn Bates, said this had been a tempestuous relationship.