Disorderly man spat on police officer at Antrim Area Hospital

Sentencing has been deferred in the case of a man who spat on police at Antrim Area Hospital.

Darren Graham (41), of Queens Avenue, Newtownabbey has been given six months by District Judge Alan White to prove he can stay out of trouble.

Graham admitted assaulting the police officer following the incident on May 24. He also admitted using disorderly behaviour in the Hospital on that date.

The court heard that police were at the hospital in relation to another incident, when staff approached them and asked would officers remove the defendant who was shouting and swearing.

Police spoke to the defendant about his behaviour and he replied: “F**k you, you black b*****ds.” He then spat a number of times at the police officer.

Prosecution said that Graham was restrained and then handcuffed.

A defending solicitor told Antrim Magistrates Court that Graham had been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offences.

Defence said: “The incident came about after Mr Graham had a seizure and hit his head. He is apologetic for his behaviour.

“A large amount of alcohol had been taken on that day. All his offending is directly related to alcohol problems.

“He is making active efforts to reduce his alcohol intake. He has been referred to addiction services.”

District Judge Alan White deferred sentencing for six months, he said: “To give you the opportunity to show me that you can stay out of trouble.”

The case was adjourned to January 26 and a further pre-sentence report requested

Judge White added: “If you reduce your alcohol consumption and stay out of trouble you may be suitable for a probation report.”