Coleraine man described as “lucky” by judge after his assault victim sent a letter to the court, vouching for his character.

On August 20th, the 36-year-old man barged into the house of his former partner, Amanda Millar. While there, he assaulted both Millar and Charlene Hardy.

 

Mr Mark Jeffrey Brown, from Maple Drive, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, handed himself in to the police two days later. However, at this time, he only provided a ‘no comment’ interview.

 

Following the incident, Amanda Millar sent a letter to the court stating that she still holds a high opinion of Brown and hopes they can remain friends. Millar described that Brown “is remorseful, and we all want to get on with our lives”.

 

The defence solicitor, Emma Glenn, stated that Brown suffers from addiction issues and uses alcohol as a coping mechanism due to his stressful job. The defence affirmed that Brown is “embarrassed and ashamed” of his actions and is “very sorry” for what has happened.

 

Brown has since been engaging with a mental health programme, through his employment, and is abstaining from drinking.

 

At the North Antrim Magistrates’ Court, sitting in Coleraine [on 16th October], Brown pled guilty to both cases of assault. District Judge Peter King imposed on him a four-month suspended sentence and a £200 compensation order.

 

The judge also imposed two restraining orders, which will last until April 2025, to ensure Brown keeps away from both assaulted women. When handed Millar’s letter, Judge King stated that the two parties remaining friends would be “unwise”.