ALEX REYNOLDS SHANKILL ROAD BELFAST PENSIONER RELEASED AFTER LEWD ACT OUTSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL
In February 2017, a disturbing incident involving a pensioner named Alex Reynolds took place outside a nursery school on Belfast's Shankill Road, leading to his subsequent sentencing and detention.Reynolds, who had been in custody since his arrest, was scheduled for release today after serving time on remand.
However, concerns about his homelessness, lack of funds, and absence of suitable accommodation prompted the court to consider additional measures before his release.
During the sentencing hearing, Belfast Crown Court heard from a social worker representing Belfast Trust that Reynolds is currently homeless and has no fixed residence.
The social worker explained that once Reynolds is released, his housing needs will be managed by the Housing Executive.
It was also indicated that Reynolds is likely to be placed initially in a hostel, with ongoing efforts by both the Trust and the Probation Board to secure supported accommodation suitable for his age, which is 70 years old.
Reynolds had previously admitted to two charges related to an incident on August 15 of the previous year, when he was caught in the act outside the nursery school on Shankill Road.
He was arrested on the day of the offence and has remained in custody since then.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m., when a motorist traveling along Shankill Road with his partner and two-year-old child noticed Reynolds sitting on a wall outside the nursery, with his trousers around his knees and his penis in his hand.
The motorist believed Reynolds was attempting to masturbate, and he responded by honking his horn and confronting Reynolds.
The motorist then parked his vehicle at a nearby garage, exited, and questioned Reynolds about his behavior.
Reynolds quickly pulled up his trousers and claimed he was urinating.
The motorist, suspicious of the situation, left the scene but later reported the incident to Tennent Street police station.
During police investigations, officers located Reynolds on the Shankill Road, where he was found drinking from a tin of Special Brew beer.
This was a breach of a previously imposed Sexual Offences Prevention Order, one of 15 breaches Reynolds has committed over time.
Reynolds was detained and interviewed by police, during which he admitted to drinking but denied engaging in any lewd act outside the nursery.
He insisted that he was not masturbating or sexually aroused, asserting instead that he was urinating.
Reynolds also claimed ignorance of the nursery's presence, stating he was simply walking along the road towards the city center.
In her sentencing remarks, Judge Patricia Smyth emphasized the seriousness of Reynolds' actions.
She described his behavior as shocking and upsetting, especially considering the proximity to a nursery school.
The judge expressed concern that if any children had witnessed Reynolds' conduct, it would have caused them significant distress.
She highlighted Reynolds' ongoing issues with alcohol and his chaotic lifestyle, which have hindered his ability to find stable accommodation.
Judge Smyth also addressed the potential danger Reynolds poses to the public, particularly given his homelessness.
She assured that every effort was being made to find him suitable housing and urged Reynolds to cooperate with social services and the Probation Board.
The judge concluded by reminding Reynolds that his actions hurt others and that compliance with the support agencies is essential for his rehabilitation and for preventing further harm to the community.
