Martin Brogan, 45, with an address listed as Carness Drive, Ballymena, was sentenced in Coleraine Magistrates’ Court today (10 July) for a sexual assault that occurred on October 27, 2025.
The defendant appeared in the dock , on what was his birthday, wearing a black coat and light blue/grey top, flanked by a prison officer as he faced the court.
The prosecution detailed an incident where Brogan, after boarding a bus at Bridge Road, Dunloy, assaulted a female passenger who was trying to exit. He reached forward, grabbing her breast, and made lewd comments, including, “that’s a good set of titties,” and referred to her in derogatory terms. CCTV footage captured the full extent of the assault, which was corroborated by a statement from the injured party.
In his defence, Brogan’s barrister, Mr Alan Stewart, acknowledged the “inexplicably stupid” nature of his actions, attributing them to a combination of mental health issues and alcohol abuse. The barrister highlighted Brogan’s current sobriety from drugs, although he still struggles with alcohol, and noted his ongoing treatment with the community mental health team.
The defence argued for probation rather than immediate custody, citing Brogan’s willingness to address his issues and the potential benefits of community rehabilitation..
Deputy District Judge Liam McStay addressed Brogan directly, stating, “This offense is very serious. While you may downplay it by saying you were drunk and that it was not significant, the impact on the complainant is very clear.” He acknowledged the victim’s dignified letter outlining the ongoing effects of the assault on her life.
Judge McStay expressed an understanding of Brogan’s circumstances, noting, “You have a paranoid reasoning for your actions, including your offending behaviour. There are valid reasons to consider that work needs to be done to reassure the public that every effort is being made to prevent future incidents like this.”
Ultimately, the judge opted for a probation order, requiring Brogan to comply with various conditions over the next two years. “If you do not comply with the directions under that probation order, you will return to court and a stronger, further order will be made,” he warned.
Additionally, a restraining order was imposed, prohibiting Brogan from contacting the complainant or entering McClelland Park, a local area where both parties could potentially encounter each other. The judge stated, “I will impose a significant restraining order for three years, prohibiting harassment, pestering, or annoying the complainant.”
Brogan was also ordered to pay £500 in compensation to the victim.
