A Castledawson man has been given a suspended prison sentence for sending a series of threatening and degrading emails to a former business associate.

Dermot Kealey, 52, of Leitrim Road, admitted to sending four emails over two days in February this year. The messages called the recipient derogatory names and expressed a desire for him to die.

The court heard that the victim had previously carried out work for Kealey, but their relationship ended after the victim was alleged to have had an affair with Kealey’s wife.

In a victim impact statement, the man said he had suffered both personally and professionally as a result of the harassment.

At the sentencing hearing, District Judge Conor Heaney described the behaviour as unacceptable and indicated that there had been a degree of planning. He imposed a restraining order that bars Kealey from contacting the victim or going near his home and business for five years.

Kealey was also ordered to pay £500 in compensation, which his solicitor said he had brought to court in cash. The defence described the defendant as well known in the construction industry and said he was ashamed and knew his actions were wrong.

The judge noted that the defendant is a father of three. Kealey has been living at a separate address in Magherafelt but his solicitor said he hopes to reunite his family.