Man jailed for threat to torch woman’s home

Man jailed for threat to torch woman’s home

3 May 2023

A DOWNPATRICK man who threatened to burn down a woman’s house and harassed his mother has been jailed for four months.

Sean McDonnell (23), of Killard Drive, appeared at the local magistrates’ court via video link from Maghaberry Prison, where he is currently on remand.

McDonnell admitted two counts of common assault, three counts of harassment, two counts of criminal damage and three counts breaching a restraining order between February 11 last year and September 20 last year.

A prosecution lawyer told the court that McDonnell made continuous and threatening phone calls to an ex-partner on February 11.

He also shouted at her and grabbed her by the throat on the same date and damaged her car on March 6.

On September 20 last year, McDonnell called another woman and threatened to burn down her house and assault her father.

McDonnell sent messages stating “play with fire and you get burned” and “watch your house, keep the kids out of it” as well as fire emojis, the prosecutor continued.

On August 25 last year, McDonnell breached a restraining order by visiting his mother’s house and smashed a mirror with a plate during an argument. On August 31, he returned to her house and refused to leave.

A defence solicitor said McDonnell was “remorseful” and had been reconciled with his mother.

He said McDonnell had a limited record and had behaved “in a manner entirely out of character”.

District Judge Amanda Brady said McDonnell “obviously has an issue in dealing with relationships” and made him the subject of a two-year restraining order in addition to the prison sentence.