A man who lashed out and punched a paramedic who was trying to provide first aid on him has been sent to prison for four months.
Conal Lennon assaulted the health care worker who brought the 19-year-old back round after he was found unconscious on May 1.
According to a police report Lennon struck the paramedic after seeing a ‘massive needle.’
It was also confirmed at court this week that the ambulance was repaired after Lennon caused criminal damage to the NHS vehicle in the frenzied incident.
Lennon also admitted the attack on the paramedic at court and issued an apology to his victim this week.
Belfast Magistrates’ Court heard how, as the victim gave first aid, Lennon regained consciousness and reacted aggressively.
According to a report in Belfast Live, Lennon swung at the ambulance worker with a closed fist, striking him and leaving him in fear of further violence.
Damage was also caused to an exit window on the vehicle.
“He said he was not thinking rationally when he swung out as he had just come round,” a Crown lawyer disclosed.
During police interviews Lennon, who gave an address at Waring Street in the city, claimed he had not intended to assault the paramedic.
He stated: “The first thing I saw when I woke up was a massive needle, I was just trying to get away.”
Defence solicitor Feargal MacElhatton stressed his client’s remorse and embarrassment at his actions.
He said when police told the defendant how the victim may have saved his life he replied: “I’m sorry, I’m disgusted with myself.”
In a separate incident, Lennon was also convicted of careless driving and having no licence or insurance.
The court heard he was behind the wheel of a Renault Clio spotted travelling erratically at Pembroke Loop Road, west Belfast on February 4 this year.
The vehicle crashed into a hedge before the driver got out and left. Lennon was arrested following a short pursuit.
Sentencing him to a total of four months in custody, District Judge George Conner also imposed £250 in fines for some of the motoring offences.
