A 23-YEAR-OLD man has had his probation revoked and has been handed a prison sentence at Enniskillen Magistrates Court.

Andrew Fisher, of Hudson Heights, Irvinestown, had been convicted of two counts of theft and one of possession of a Class-C drug on November 3 last, and was given an 18-months probation order.

However, Fisher breached this order, and was described by District Judge Steven Keown of leading Probation Services “on a merry dance”.

Fisher, who appeared at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Monday, appeared to struggle to keep his eyes open as his barrister, Stephen Fitzpatrick, told the court that it was clear the 23-year-old had an ongoing issue with substance misuse.

Mr. Fitzpatrick said that his client had contacted Probation to re-engage following his release from prison, and while the court takes probation breaches seriously, this “young man” needs probation.

‘Merry dance’
However, in response, Judge Keown said that Probation were being led on a merry dance, and that they can only help people who want to be helped.

Mr. Fitzpatrick asked if a three to four week adjournment might be sought in the matter to put Fisher to the test; however, Judge Keown decided to revoke the probation orders.

Fisher was handed a six-month prison sentence in total; however, he was released on bail pending an appeal.