Enniskillen Court House
A DISTRESSED Lisnaskea man who frightened ambulance staff when they arrived and found him outside his house with knives has been given community service.
Thomas Mulligan (48) of Trasna Way appeared at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Wednesday where he pleaded guilty to common assault.
The court heard the assault was “technical” in that no physical contact was made, and was brought because he had put ambulance staff in fear when they were called to his home on July 4th last.
When the ambulance crew, who were called out in response to a safety report, arrived at his home in Trasna Way at approximately 12.25am, they found Mulligan outside with what appeared to be string around his neck and a knife in each hand.
When police arrived Mulligan was inside and shouting. When he appeared to them at the door he had calmed down.
He was arrested and two knives were found in his back pockets.
The defendant told police that he had not intended to hurt anyone but himself.
Defence barrister Stefan Rafferty said the incident had been very unfortunate.
He said Mulligan had been drunk but had also been very depressed and had been exhibiting suicidal behaviour.
Mr Rafferty said Mulligan had not meant any ill will towards anyone at the scene, and that the defendant accepted responsibility for putting the ambulance crew member in fear.
The barrister said that Mulligan, who has not drank alcohol since the incident, would benefit from the services probation could provide.
He said the defendant had been going through a difficult time when the offence happened, but was not now likely to be back before the court again.
District Judge Michael Ranaghan agreed Mulligan could benefit from its services and sentenced him to 12 months probation.
He also ordered him to pay £150 compensation to the ambulance crew member.
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