Derry man who assaulted partner on child's christening night sentenced

A judge at Derry Magistrate's Court has said that domestic violence is 'a scourge in this country' as he sentenced a local man for assaulting his partner.

Christopher Burke (20) of the Old Fort in Strathfoyle outside Derry admitted one charge of common assault on the woman on June 16 last year.

The court was told that the defendant said he had no recollection of the incident which was the second of its kind involving the defendant and his partner. 

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that the couple were now reconciled and there had been nothing further since last June.

He said that this incident occurred on the night of the christening of the couple's child when the defendant had drank too much.

The solicitor said that his client 'appreciates the seriousness of the the offence'.

Deputy District Judge Brian Archer said that this was the second offence within a short period of time.

He said that this type of offending 'was all too prevalent in our society' and the court had to consider a deterrence factor.

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The judge told Burke 'you should be ashamed of yourself' and added he was fortunate the woman had taken him back.

Judge Archer said that the custody threshold had been passed and he sentenced Burke to three months in prison suspended for two years.