Assault after ‘contribution’ to group putting up flags

Aaron Dennis Comiskey from Mount Charles pleaded guilty to a charge of common assault at last week’s court.

He was bound over to keep the peace for two years in the sum of £500 and warned to stay out of trouble.

The court heard how on August 24 last year police received a call for urgent assistance in relation to an assault.

A group of males were erecting flags on the Dromore Road when the defendant became involved resulting in him assaulting one of the members erecting the flags.

The injured party claimed he had been punched in the face. When police arrested Comiskey, it was clear he had consumed a large amount of alcohol. He admitted punching the man in the face and damaging one of the banners the group was erecting.

Barrister Mr O’Hare said this was a night of revelry which was “fairly innocent”. “He was making his way home when he came across the flag and decided to offer his vocal contribution.”

District Judge Mr Copeland said, “You would do well to avoid being drawn into controversy of any kind given your record for disorderly behaviour and confrontation with police.”