Laois sportsman admits one punch assault

A Laois sportsman admitted a one punch assault which knocked a man unconscious and left him with a chipped tooth.

Brochan O’Reilly, 19, of 193 St Brigid’s Place, Portlaoise admitted assault causing harm at Market Square, Portlaoise on February 4, 2024.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused man approached the injured party and “struck him in the face with a closed fist” at 2.40am. 

The injured party lost consciousness, fell and suffered a cut to his head and chipped tooth during what Sgt Kirby described as a “very frightening experience” for the injured party. 

The defendant “presented himself to gardaí and made full admissions,” he said. 

“I know Mr O’Reilly since he was a chap and I am very disappointed to see him here,” said Sgt Kirby. He said the defendant represents his county in sports. 

Solicitor Josphine Fitzpatrick brought testimonials to court. 

“I have an education reference, I have a work reference, a sporting reference,” she said. Ms Fitzpatrick said probably most difficult of all, she had a letter form the defendant’s mother. 

She said her client engaged with the solicitor of the injured party and had made full admissions. He had attended counselling and anger management following the incident. 

Judge Nicola Andrews described the incident as “extremely serious” pointing out that “it only takes one punch”. 

“Your client took a swing at this young gentleman,” she said.  

“Sometimes it results in situations where people don’t go home,” said Judge Andrews. 

“I am very concerned about what transpired on the evening in question,” she continued. 

Ms Fitzpatrick said her client had taken steps with the assistance of the injured party’s solicitor. 

“He has taken it as seriously as the court has indicated he should,” said Ms Fitzpatrick. 

“I can assure this court that you will never see Mr O’Reilly again,” she said. 

She expressed concern that this one “outrageous mistake” will follow the defendant for the rest of his life. 

“I sat with him at interview, I saw the remorse,” she said. 

Judge Andrews noted the early plea and the steps the defendant has taken.  She also “noted that there was not an insignificant amount” of compensation paid out to the injured party. She decided to apply the probation act.