The accident and emergency entrance to the South West Acute Hospital.
A MAN WHO shouted obscenities at police after becoming abusive to staff at the SWAH Emergency Department has been sentenced to two months in prison.
Conor Rodgers (48) of Drumannon Rise, Omagh pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Monday, appearing via video link from prison where he’s currently in custody on other matters.
On Sunday, December 9th, police were called to the Emergency Department at the South West Acute Hospital after reports of a man being aggressive. Rodgers had reportedly been abusive to the receptionist and a ward doctor, who was refusing to treat him until he calmed down.
When the police arrived Rodgers left the ED and went outside, but then turned back and began remonstrating with police. His voice was raised, and he approached the officers in an aggressive manner. He then ran out to his car, while shouting at police, telling them to “f**k off”, accusing them of breaking his car key, and calling out more obscenities.
Defence solicitor Garry Smyth said Rodgers did not fully agree with the facts outlined to the court, with the defendant stating he did not become disorderly until after the police arrived. Mr Smyth said Rodgers did accept his behaviour towards police had “crossed the threshold” and regretted the upset he caused.
The solicitor said Rodgers had not been able to get registered with a GP and presented to the ED regularly with medical conditions.
Mr Smyth said the defendant, whose last previous conviction was in 2007, was aware of the difficult job medical staff had to do, and was grateful for the treatment he received.
District Judge Michael Ranaghan said while he was taking Rodgers’ early plea and expression of regret into account, the fact the offence had occurred at a hospital was an aggravating feature. He sentenced Rodgers to two months in prison.
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