Northern Ireland courts issued sentences and rulings this week across several criminal and civil matters.

Patrick Egerton, 30, of Wiltshire, received a five-month prison sentence at Newtownards Magistrates Court on Monday after pleading guilty to stalking, harassment, making threats to damage property and threatening communications. The offences occurred between February 13, 2025 and March 26, 2025. Egerton sent messages threatening his former partner, including a threat to slice her throat.

A Co Antrim couple, Neil and Donna Sands, were refused permission by the High Court on Tuesday to appeal a December 2023 award of £300,000 in damages. The couple had sued over online comments published on a gossip website. The court also refused to delay lifting an asset freeze order.

David Austin, 59, of Ballymoney, received a life sentence at Coleraine Crown Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty to the murder of Steven Peck in January 2021. Austin admitted luring the victim to a laneway near Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre and attacking him with a knife.

Declan Gray, of Ormeau Road in Belfast, received a suspended sentence at Belfast Laganside Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty to drink-driving and careless driving causing injury. The incident occurred on July 17, 2025 on Donegall Square East when Gray struck three women crossing the road.

Laura Doody, 42, of Benraw Gardens in Belfast, was ordered by the High Court on Thursday not to return to the Royal Victoria Hospital. Doody faces charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm after allegedly shaking two patients on a spinal injuries ward on May 4 this year.

Trevor Donaghy, 45, of Ainsworth Drive in Belfast, was refused bail at the High Court on Thursday on 20 charges including rape, supplying cocaine and controlling prostitution. Prosecutors said the charges involve three complainants and that Donaghy may have contacted up to 30 women.

Adrien Cesbron, 25, received a three-month suspended sentence at Belfast Magistrates Court on Friday after pleading guilty to drink-driving. Police pursued his vehicle on the M2 near Antrim on April 5 this year after observing erratic driving.