'You could have killed someone' - defendant told

At North Antrim Magistrates' Court on Friday Aaron McLaughlin (21) of Roselick Road, was handed a four month custodial sentence suspended for three years by District Judge Richard Wilson, who warned him about his future conduct.

The court heard that, on August 10 this year, police were called to the venue in Portstewart after a report was made that a male was assaulted.

On arrival, officers discovered the injured party had been struck by a glass, which had been thrown from the other side of the bar. It was revealed he was taken to hospital where he received three stitches to the cut on his chin.

The following day CCTV footage was reviewed and the defendant was identified as the assailant and he was subsequently arrested.

Under interview the defendant admitted he had thrown the glass but explained he had mistakenly thought his friend had been assaulted by another man. McLaughlin hit the male and threw a glass at him, but missed striking the injured party at the other end of the bar.

The defendant told officers he was sorry for what he had done saying he had too much to drink.

The defence said this was out of character for McLaughlin who realises he was very lucky not to have caused a more serious injury or even a fatality.

It was added the defendant has tried to contact the injured party to apologise for his stupidity and moronic actions.

District Judge Richard Wilson said: "Fuelled with drink you threw an offensive weapon across a crowded room, you could have killed someone.

"It's one thing to throw a fist but it's another to throw a glass.

"You need to avoid drinking to excess. You have a suspended sentence hanging over you now and if you are involved in anything like this again you will go to jail.

The defendant was also ordered to pay the injured party 500 compensation.