A Belfast man has been given a suspended prison sentence for assaulting police officers at a music festival in Ormeau Park. James Mulholland, 19, of Annadale Avenue, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault on police, resisting arrest, and criminal damage to a watch. The offences occurred on June 27 at the Belsonic event.

Belfast Magistrates' Court heard that Mulholland had been removed from the festival by security staff before police intervened. He became aggressive and told officers he was a trained boxer who would harm them. Additional police were called due to his continued aggression.

While officers attempted to restrain him, Mulholland kicked two constables and damaged a watch. He also directed homophobic language at the officers.

Defence counsel Michael Halleron said Mulholland expressed remorse for his behaviour, which he attributed to alcohol. The court heard that remarks Mulholland made about the community enjoying the incident referred to a separate event, the All-Ireland Fleadh, not his actions.

Deputy District Judge Liam McStay imposed a three-month sentence suspended for two years. He told Mulholland that any repeat would result in adult imprisonment.