MICHAEL MARK CAUGHT IN BALLYMENA INDECENT EXPOSURE INCIDENT NEAR RIVER BRAID

In November 2016, a serious incident involving indecent exposure took place in Ballymena, leading to the arrest and court appearance of Michael Mark, a 52-year-old man from Hazelwood Terrace, Craigywarren, near Ballymena. The case garnered attention due to the nature of the offense and the presence of young children in the vicinity at the time.

According to court records, Mark appeared before Ballymena's magistrates' court on a Thursday to face charges related to his conduct on August 22. The incident occurred at approximately 4:50 pm along Currells Avenue, situated on the banks of the River Braid. Witnesses reported seeing a man, later identified as Mark, engaging in inappropriate behavior in a public space.

The prosecution detailed that Mark was accused of intentionally exposing his genitals with the intent that others, including children as young as 11, would see him. The act was described as a sexual display, which caused alarm and distress among witnesses and members of the public present at the scene.

Initially, the case was scheduled as a contested hearing, but Mark ultimately pleaded guilty to the charge of indecent exposure. A second charge of indecent behavior in a public place was dropped during the proceedings. Court reports indicated that some witnesses observed Mark standing with his trousers pulled down below his knees, performing a sexual act upon himself with one hand while his other hand was placed on his rear.

Police officers responded swiftly after being alerted by concerned members of the public. When questioned, Mark initially denied the allegations, claiming he was on holiday, had cycled to the area, and stopped for a drink and a smoke. Despite his denial, the evidence and witness testimonies led to his guilty plea in court.

District Judge Peter King decided to adjourn the case for sentencing until December. He ordered that reports be prepared to assist in the sentencing process, and Mark was scheduled to return to court once these reports were completed. The incident remains a stark reminder of the importance of public safety and the serious consequences of such behavior in community spaces near Ballymena.