Woman fined for verbally abusing gardaí in public office of garda station in Newbridge, County Kildare

A 49-year-old woman was fined for verbally abusing gardaí in the public office of Newbridge Garda Station.

Shirley Morgan, with an address given as Peter McVerry Trust Homeless Shelter, Eyre Street in Newbridge, was fined by Judge Desmond Zaidan on Thursday, July 25 last for the offence.

Ms Morgan was represented by her solicitor, Tim Kennelly, as she was absent from Naas District Court on the date in question.

Gardaí alleged that she became verbally abusive to gardaí in the public office of Newbridge Garda Station on July 19 last.

It was heard that she has two previous convictions related to public disorder offences.

Speaking to Judge Zaidan, Mr Kennelly said: "She has a lot of issues... she is sober now, which is a massive step for her, but the difficulty is now that she is still reacting."

He added: "I would ask you for leniency."

Referring to the gardaí, Mr Kennelly also told the judge: "No one should have to put up with that [behaviour] at work."

Judge Zaidan decided to impose a €200 fine on Ms Morgan, which is to be paid in a lump sum within three months.