Derry man receives suspended sentence for assaulting former partner

A man has been given a suspended sentence at Derry Magistrate's Court for assaulting his former partner and criminal damage. 

Lee Shiels (22) of Rosses Gate in Derry admitted the offences which occurred on March 6 2024 and also a series of driving offences on March 15 2025.

The court heard that Shiels' former partner was at work when the defendant entered pushed her and spat at her.

He also tried to get money from the till causing damage to the till estimated at £500 and the business was forced to close early.

Shiels also admitted failing to stop after an accident, failing to remain and failing to report.

Defence counsel Sinead Rogan said that her client had made full admissions and expressed remorse .

District Judge Ted Magill said his first impression was that a custodial sentence would be appropriate in this case.

He said that a lot of his issues were not the defendant's fault.

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Shiels was given a three month sentence suspended for two years, ordered to pay £700 in compensation, disqualified for three months and fined £100.