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02/08/2023
Men Jailed Over 'Distasteful' Christmas Mural
Two men have been jailed for terrorism offences in connection with a "distasteful" Christmas mural in L'Derry.
At Londonderry Magistrates Court, Jordan Devine (22) was sentenced to three months imprisonment for wearing clothing, or having article(s) as a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation. William McDonnell (37) was handed a four-month custodial sentence for the offence of wearing clothing, or having article(s) as a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation.
The charges brought against the two men were made by Terrorism Investigation Unit detectives investigating a mural painted on the window of premises on Chamberlain Street in the city last year. The mural was of a masked snowman appearing to press the button on a command wire which leads to trees, with the accompanying words 'they haven't gone away ye know'. A Santa was also painted on the mural.
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Inspector Dane said: "This mural was incredibly distasteful, appearing just days after a sickening attempted murder attack on our colleagues in Strabane.
"We welcome today's court outcome in respect of the charges against Devine and McDonnell. I want to acknowledge the diligent work by local officers in Derry City & Strabane and the enquiries they made which greatly assisted our detectives in progressing their investigation. Today's sentences are as a result of these combined efforts.”
Detective Inspector Dane added: "Our investigation illustrates our commitment to bringing those determined to harm our community before the Court."
At Londonderry Magistrates Court, Jordan Devine (22) was sentenced to three months imprisonment for wearing clothing, or having article(s) as a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation. William McDonnell (37) was handed a four-month custodial sentence for the offence of wearing clothing, or having article(s) as a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation.
The charges brought against the two men were made by Terrorism Investigation Unit detectives investigating a mural painted on the window of premises on Chamberlain Street in the city last year. The mural was of a masked snowman appearing to press the button on a command wire which leads to trees, with the accompanying words 'they haven't gone away ye know'. A Santa was also painted on the mural.
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Inspector Dane said: "This mural was incredibly distasteful, appearing just days after a sickening attempted murder attack on our colleagues in Strabane.
"We welcome today's court outcome in respect of the charges against Devine and McDonnell. I want to acknowledge the diligent work by local officers in Derry City & Strabane and the enquiries they made which greatly assisted our detectives in progressing their investigation. Today's sentences are as a result of these combined efforts.”
Detective Inspector Dane added: "Our investigation illustrates our commitment to bringing those determined to harm our community before the Court."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
