Woman damaged hospital defibrillator

A woman who smashed a defibrillator in Altnagelvin Hospital cannot properly be described as criminal because she suffers from significant mental health difficulties, a Judge in the local court has said.

Before the court was Caoimhe Michelle Lynch (23), of Hillview Park, Castlederg, who was given a conditional discharge and ordered to pay £200 compensation.

The court was told she pleaded guilty to a charge of disorderly behaviour at Altnagelvin Hospital on April 25, last year.

Lynch also admitted causing damage estimated at over £2,200 to a defibrillator.

The prosecution said hospital staff requested police assistance with Lynch due to her behaviour. It was outlined how at one stage in the waiting area she was heard shouting “I am Jesus, I am God. I will do whatever I want”, that she removed a handwash bottle from the wall and threw it on the ground.

On arrival at the scene police attempted to restrain Lynch, but she picked up a defibrillator machine and threw it at her feet.

Lynch was subsequently arrested and she struggled with the officers.

Defence Counsel, Stephen Mooney, said Lynch had significant mental health problems and had been suffering from delusions at the time. If she continued to take her medication she was unlikely to commit further offences he said.

Passing sentence, Judge Dunlop said it was not appropriate to impose normal disposals appropriate in ordinary cases of disorderly behaviour in the hospital.