Tyrone man claims he attacked police during ‘psychotic episode’

A 21-YEAR-OLD man has narrowly avoided a further period in custody after assaulting police officers during a drug-fuelled outburst that included grabbing one in the groin.

Alex Powell, of Nelson Park in Fivemiletown, appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court on Wednesday to be sentenced for a series of offences stemming from the incident on January 28.

Police were called to a property by Powell’s aunt, who was concerned after he had taken drugs. Officers arrived and informed Powell he would be searched, uncovering 30 pregabalin tablets hidden in his hood.

Due to his level of intoxication, Powell was taken to Altnagelvin Hospital, where his behaviour became increasingly aggressive. He attempted to kick one officer and had to be restrained. During the struggle, he grabbed an officer in the groin, causing what the court heard were ‘painful injuries’.

A further search revealed two grams of cannabis in his possession.

The situation escalated again when Powell tried to leave his hospital bed for a cigarette. When told to stay put, he attempted to kick police officers once more.

In a later police interview, Powell claimed he had no memory of the events and suggested he may have experienced a psychotic episode.

Defence counsel Craig Patton told the court that Powell has significant issues with substance abuse and urged District Judge Francis Rafferty to consider his client’s vulnerable state, noting he was just nine days away from being released from custody for a previous offence.

Judge Rafferty imposed a four-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

Powell replied simply, “No problem, thank you.”