Anyone who misbehaves in Altnagelvin Hospital 'will suffer the consequences' - Derry judge
District Judge Barney McElholm was speaking as he jailed a man who admitted putting a member of staff in fear of being assaulted
A judge at Derry Magistrate's Court has said 'the message has to go out' that anyone who misbehaves in the hospital 'will suffer the consequences.'
District Judge Barney McElholm was speaking as he jailed a man who admitted putting a member of staff in fear of being assaulted.
John Strachan (34) of no fixed abode admitted a charge of assault that occurred on July 4, 2023.
The court heard that Strachan was a patient in the A&E department of Altnagelvin Hospital and a staff member asked him to calm down.
In response Strachan shouted at her and then approached her with his fists clenched leading her to believe she was about to be assaulted.
Another staff member described Strachan's behaviour as being 'aggressive'.
A defence barrister said the defendant had mental health issues and on the date in question had been seeking medical help after being attacked in the city centre.
Judge McElholm said that there was a problem here with this sort of behaviour in hospital.
He said this defendant may have health issues but it seems these could be managed by medication.
The judge said this was simply 'sheer bad behaviour' and said Strachan wanted everyone 'to drop everything to help him.'
He added that the attitude towards staff was 'completely and wholly outrageous.'
He jailed Strachan for four months.