Emmett Byrne (19) of Ardown, Monbrief, Craigavon appeared before the town’s Magistrates Court as a result of the incident and when invited to quote the Koran told the District Judge he could not remember making the comment.
Byrne admitted a charge of disorderly behaviour and was fined £300.
Intoxicated
At 11.30am on the morning of December 4, police went to the Strathroy Road after receiving a report that the teenager was shouting abuse at members of the public.
The court was told he was intoxicated and became abusive towards the police officers. Despite being warned to calm down he continued to shout and swear at members of the public. On being cautioned, he told police, “F*** the court I only answer to Allah.”
On telling District Judge Bernie Kelly he could not remember making the comment, she said, “Absolutely, you don’t recall saying that because you were as high as a kite.”
She also told Byrne not to bring that behaviour “down here” from Craigavon and said there was “no reason” for him to come west of the Bann.
Judge Kelly added his remark about Allah could be viewed as racist as the defendant is not a Muslim.
Apologise
A defence solicitor said the teenager accepted he was “totally out of line.” He said Byrne went to Omagh with friends and had been drinking and had no way to get home. The solicitor said his client wished to apologise to the court.
Judge Kelly pointed out the defendant has two previous convictions for public order offences, the last coming just weeks before this incident.
The solicitor replied that he is staying off drink and his mother is “steering him in the right way.”
Imposing the fine Judge Kelly added, “It is frightening at the age of 19 he has a drink problem. I expect this to be paid and it will be less money to buy drink.
“The good news is I am temporarily in court in Craigavon and if I see him again he is going to prison.”
- See more at: http://ulsterherald.com/2015/01/02/rowdy-teen-told-police-he-only-answers-to-allah/#sthash.lca5V5gR.dpuf
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