Today, Friday 5th May 2023, a 26 years old man from the Derry/Londonderry area was sentenced at Londonderry Crown Court for charges including, grievous bodily harm, common assault and criminal damage.

David Friel was sentenced to 22 and a half months in custody and 22 and half months on licence. He will be subjected to a five year Violence Offence Prevention Order (VOPO).

DC Smyth Said:  “Friel’s reprehensible actions have unsurprisingly left his victim shaken and with undoubtable long lasting trauma.

“The criminal justice process can be a daunting one. Therefore, we would like to thank the victim in this case for coming forward and working with us. Your bravery is commended.

“We urge anyone who has been subjected to any form of violence, abuse or intimidation to come forward. Call 101 or 999 in cases of emergency.”