Danny Peter Semaus Maguire, 33, from Cookstown, was convicted at Dungannon Magistrates Court on Wednesday of assaulting two women inside a takeaway on James Street.

The incident occurred on September 27 last year. Maguire entered the premises and requested a lighter from one woman before placing his arm around her. The women objected to the contact as improper. Maguire then shouted his name several times and directed insults at them.

One of the women struck Maguire on the face twice. He pushed both to the floor. One sustained unconsciousness and the other leg injuries.

Police arrested Maguire on October 2 following circulation of video footage. He stated to officers that he had drunk alcohol all day, recalled nothing of the event, and felt disgust over his conduct.

District Judge Rafferty called the behaviour appalling and disgusting. The judge withheld leniency due to Maguire contesting the charges initially and labelled him a bully and thug. The judge indicated public response to the online video was likely warranted.

Defence counsel noted Maguire pursued no self-defence claim. Maguire has avoided alcohol since the incident and had no prior court appearance in a decade.

Maguire received an 18-month probation order plus 80 hours community service. He must pay 500 pounds compensation to each woman.