Man with 391 previous convictions jailed for four months for disorderly behaviour

Damien Joseph Young, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour, attempted criminal damage and resisting police.

The charges relate to an incident on the Glendermott Road on June 3.

Derry Magistrates’ Court heard the 53-year-old was observed on the footpath holding a bottle of vodka. He was unsteady on his feet and stood out in the middle of oncoming traffic.

He threw the bottle towards traffic and kicked the passenger side of a vehicle. Police attended and removed Young from the road and he became aggressive and abusive.

During police interview he admitted throwing the vodka bottle but could not remember anything else.

The court heard the defendant, who has 391 previous convictions, received a suspended sentence a week ago for identical behaviour.

Defence counsel Sean Doherty said his client has a 20 year history of homelessness and alcohol and mental health issues.

Jailing Young, District Judge Ted Magill said ‘this behaviour is a danger to you and to others’.

He added he had given Young ‘a chance’ last week and there ‘will be consequences if that is breached’.