Man who threw vodka bottle avoids jail term

A FORTY-YEAR-OLD man who spat at police and threw a bottle of vodka at a patrol car, has narrowly avoided going to prison.

Samuel Gary Doherty from Canal Side, Strabane was already on a suspended sentence when he appeared before the magistrates court on Thursday.

There he was being sentenced for three offences, two counts of assaulting police and one count of criminal damage.

The court heard that on July 3 last year at around 1.50pm police on patrol had cause to speak with the defendant on Market Street.

However, when spoken to, Doherty raised his middle finger to the officers and became “very aggressive,” calling them “Scum RUC b*******.”

The Strabane man was warned about his behaviour but instead of backing off he squared up to police and at one point had to be pushed away. Doherty’s aggressive behaviour continued and he kicked a patrol car door and then threw a half full bottle of vodka at the car.

Representing Doherty in court, barrister, Dean Mooney said his client was embarrassed by the episode and has since demonstrated shame and remorse.

Falls off the wagon

“He is a man who has significant insight into his difficulties,” Mr Mooney told the court.

The barrister explained that Doherty had previously received a paramilitary-style beating and had later suffered from PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) and was struggling with alcohol.

Mr Mooney continued, “He says he knows alcohol is an issue and that he has to address it. There are times when, unfortunately, he falls off the wagon.”

Mr Mooney also pointed out that Doherty has been sober for a period of three months and is a man who has “portrayed himself as remorseful.”

Addressing the defendant, Deputy District Judge John Connolly confirmed he would not activate the suspended sentence.

“He looks fresh and he’s on the right track,” the judge said.

Referring to the pre-sentence report, he added, “This was quite a positive report. When people are making an effort and rehabilitation is at the fore-front.”

Handing Doherty an 12-month probation order Judge Connolly concluded, “Mr Doherty, it’s up to you. If you don’t cooperate, it will be prison.”