Derry man jailed for burglary

A 21-year-old man who is 'accruing a significant record' has been jailed at Derry Magistrate's Court today for an offence of burglary.

Joseph O'Kane (21) of Stoneburn Place in Derry admitted a charge of burglary with intent to commit unlawful damage and a charge of criminal damage on May 27 this year.

The court heard that police were called to an address in the city and we're told that someone had been seen smashing windows with a shovel.

Police found O'Kane inside the property and several windows and a door had been damaged.

A large shovel was also recovered and the damage was estimated at £1,250.

The defendant was said to be 'highly intoxicated' and made full admissions.

Defence counsel Kieran Roddy said that the main aggravating feature was the amount of the damage. 

He said this had 'not been premeditated' in any way and said alcohol was the key to this man's offending.

The barrister said that if O'Kane did not get his drinking in order 'the revolving door that is Maghaberry Prison will keep on revolving'.

The defendant was sentenced to five months in prison and ordered to pay £1,250 in compensation.