Sentenced for spitting at ex-girlfriend

A man who spat at his ex-girlfriend during a five hour long ‘psychotic episode’ has received a suspended sentence.
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Brendan Harkin, of Park Avenue, was convicted of common assault and causing damage to a door lock on November 11, last year.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard the injured party was in bed sleeping when she heard a loud banging.

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She got up and found the 49-years-old in her home and that the locking mechanism of the front door was damaged.

Harkin had opened a bottle of wine, poured himself a glass and was drinking it.

The injured party was not permitted to leave her home for the next five hours, whilst Harkin had a ‘psychotic episode’.

He shouted at her and spat at her during this time and the woman was frightened because of their lengthy domestic history.

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During police interview, Harkin admitted forcing open the door but denied spitting at the injured party.

Defence solicitor, Eugene Burns, said his client is a man with ‘significant issues’ who ‘clearly requires help.’

He said it is accepted his client has relevant previous convictions and there is a history of domestic violence.

Suspending a six months sentence for two years, District Judge Barney McElholm also ordered Harkin to spend 12 months on Probation.

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The judge also imposed a Restraining Order, which bans Harkin from having any contact with the injured party for the next six years.

He warned the defendant: “It is very important you stay well away from this woman and don’t bother her in her life again.”