The case was heard at Enniskillen Courthouse
A 28-year-old Enniskillen man who threw a curry chip over a police car after consuming ‘alcohol in excess’ has given a two month custodial sentence suspended for 12 months.
Liam McGovern of Glenwood Gardens was convicted of disorderly behaviour at Fermanagh Magistrates Court. The prosecutor outlined that on November 15, 2014 at 1.50am police were stationed at the Diamond, Enniskillen in a vehicle when the defendant approached, pressing his face against the front side passenger window. He then opened the passenger door and was told by officers to move on. McGovern refused and became verbally abusive. He then threw a carton of curry chips over the front passenger door.
Defence solicitor Garry Smyth explained that on the night in question McGovern had been out for a meal and had consumed alcohol. Mr Smyth said that the defendant then continued drinking on through the night and had consumed alcohol ‘in excess’. The defence said the incident was set against the backdrop of previous incidents when the defendant was stopped and searched extensively by police. He highlighted to the court that no charges had ever arose against the defendant as a result of these searches.
The solicitor said that it had been almost five years since McGovern’s last offence for disorderly behaviour and no matters were pending. Mr Smyth handed a reference into the court and told the court McGovern was employed and well regarded by his employer. The defence further asked for credit for the defendant’s early guilty plea.
District judge Nigel Broderick noted McGovern’s relevant record, but acknowledged the vintage of the incident. In imposing the suspended sentence the judge added: “In light of the fact you’re working I’m going to leave something hanging over your head.”
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