A Belfast man has been sentenced to 18 months probation after admitting disorderly behaviour and assaulting police during an incident in Derry earlier this year.

Ryan Patrick Smith, 39, of Devonshire Street, Belfast, appeared at Derry Magistrates Court charged with offences linked to events on Clooney Terrace on May 8.

Police were called to the scene and encountered Smith, who told them he had recently left hospital where he was receiving treatment for drug-related issues.

The court heard that Smith verbally abused a woman who had attempted to assist him before turning his aggression towards officers. When police moved to detain him after he tried to leave, he became combative and shouted sectarian abuse.

Smith admitted one count of disorderly behaviour and one count of assault on police.

Defence counsel Sinead Rogan informed the court that her client was upset by his own conduct. Deputy District Judge Trevor Browne noted that the behaviour appeared out of character for Smith.

In addition to the probation order, no further penalties were recorded.