Probation for man who damaged chip shop till

Darren James Kennedy, of Newmills Road, was charged with theft and criminal damage following an incident in Bubba’s chip shop on July 4 last year.

Police were called by staff after Kennedy reached over the counter and attempted to grab the till.

The till drawer was damaged in the incident and Kennedy got away with 5 in cash.

An employee gave police a description of Kennedy, who was arrested a short time later at Union Street.

In a police interview, Kennedy admitted the offence.

A defence solicitor said that Kennedy had 70 in court with him to pay for the damage to the till and to compensate the takeaway for the money he took.

Referring to a pre-sentence report, the solicitor said that its findings were ‘positive’ and said that Kennedy had recently moved out of the Coleraine area to be with his partner.

Deputy District Judge Boyle warned the defendant about his record, saying: “Time is running out for you. “

She put Kennedy on probation for a year and warned him of the consequences should he breach the order.