Good samaritan arrested in Portlaoise on New Year’s Day

A “good samaritan” who was “shouting and roaring” at 3am on New Year’s Day ended up in court. 

Aaron Martley (34) of Dublin Road, Portlaoise was accused of engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour at Market Square, Portlaoise on January 1, 2025. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the incident occurred at 3am. 

“He had a bit of drink taken. He was shouting and roaring,” he said. 

Sgt Kirby said the man was “normally of good character” and had no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client worked in the transport industry. On the night in question, he met his girlfriend at around midnight. She was working in a local pub, Mr Meagher said. 

He said the pair had a few drinks and were in a queue for pizza when the defendant saw the son of one of his friends who was involved in an incident. The man was trying to help a young woman up off the ground near a taxi which was trying to pull away and the defendant went over and banged on the taxi.

“‘You are a disgrace,’ he was shouting at the taxi man to try and appease the situation,” said Mr Meagher.  

“He was trying to be a good samaritan,” he said. 

 Mr Meagher said his client had brought a sum of €300 to court.

“I don’t think he will ever trouble the court again,” he remarked. 

Judge Susan Fay accepted the €300 and ordered that it be donated to the Little Blue Heroes charity. She then applied the probation act.