Threw coin at station employee

Sentencing has been deferred in the case of Martin McNally (34), of Alina Gardens, Dunmurry who admitted assault and using disorderly behaviour, which occurred on August 20.

Police were tasked to an incident at Lisburn Train Station; they spoke to the customer services manager who said they had found the defendant sleeping at the station.

It was added that the victim tried to wake McNally up and he responded by shouting at her and calling her names.

Prosecution said the defendant took a coin from his pocket and threw it at the injured party, she then believed that she was going to be assaulted by him.

The court heard that McNally then boarded a train to Bangor, where police were waiting for him. He was arrested and admitted his behaviour, but said he did not intend to put the lady in fear.

A defending solicitor told Lisburn Magistrates’ Court that this was a distressing incident for the lady concerned.

Defence said McNally had been seeking treatment with the local mental health team and whilst he had been drinking before the incident, the defendant did not use this as an excuse for his behaviour.

District Judge Rosie Watters deferred sentencing until June 1, 2017 to see if McNally continues to engage with the mental health team.

“This was very unpleasant for this lady. You did apologise, other people don’t manage to do that,” she said.