A man, aged 36, has been sentenced to three years at Downpatrick Crown Court for a violent attack in May 2024, after being convicted of wounding, criminal damage and common assault.

Conor Carey will serve half of the term in custody and half on licence, and is also subject to a restraining order.

Commenting, Detective Sergeant Emerson from Newry CID said: "On Wednesday 15th May 2024, we received a report that a man had been stabbed to the face in the St John's Mews area of Downpatrick. "A woman was also punched and pushed, while another occupant of the apartment building was threatened with the knife before Carey made off. Later the same day, he returned to St John's Mews and smashed a number of windows.

"Officers commenced a hunt for the suspect, and he was arrested on Monday 20th May."

Detective Sergeant Emerson continued: "This horrific assault was a terrifying ordeal which will have caused long-lasting trauma to Carey’s victims. The man sustained life-changing injuries, including a fractured cheekbone and a wound across his face which required approximately 20 staples.

"This sentencing sends a clear message to anyone who thinks they can get away with violence, or intimidate victims into staying silent - we will work tirelessly to bring such offenders before the courts."