Woman went to PSNI station in nightdress

Ryan Ball, of Station Road, Desertmartin, was given a four-month jail sentence, suspended for two years, at Magherafelt Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

Ball admitted making threats to kill and common assault on April 30 last year.

He also admitted improper use of an electronic communications network to cause annoyance and needless anxiety on July 12 last year.

Imposing the sentence, Deputy District Judge Noel Dunlop refused an application for a restraining order, describing the incident as a “one off”.

Prosecuting counsel said on April 30 the injured party arrived at Magherafelt PSNI station at 5am in her nightdress and distressed.

She said police went to the house where they found and arrested Ball in a bedroom.

Continuing, counsel said on July 12 the injured party received 26 messages from the defendant making threats and he was later arrested by the police.

Defence lawyer Michael Forde stressed Ball had a completely clear criminal record and was now living with his parents. He said Ball was abstaining from alcohol and was put on medication for mental health difficulties.

Mr Forde said the relationship was “well and truly over” and there has been no further contact between the parties.

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