Accused of repeatedly punching Portlaoise phone shop worker

A man allegedly repeatedly punched a phone shop worker in Portlaoise. 

Robert Camara, 37, with an address at 25 Millbrook, Portlaoise appeared before Portlaoise District Court charged with assault causing harm at One Hour Phone in Lyster Square on December 10, 2021. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said it would be alleged that the accused went into the store at 1.40pm demanding a phone. He said a member of staff asked him for a ticket but the defendant didn’t have one for a phone. 

“He became aggressive and threw numerous punches,” Sgt Kirby said it was alleged.

“The injuries were on the upper end,” said Sgt Kirby. 

Judge John O’Leary asked if any bones were broken in the alleged assault. 

“I believe so,” Sgt Kirby responded. However, he said he had not seen a medical report in relation to the matter.  

Judge O’Leary decided to adjourn the matter in order to decide on whether the case should be heard in the District Court or the higher Circuit Court. He remanded the defendant on continuing bail to appear again before Portlaoise District Court on September 7 for jurisdiction to be decided. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was now living in Cill an Oir in Graiguecullen. He asked that a bail sign on condition be changed from Portlaoise to Carlow.