Man admits headbutting garda in Portlaoise

A man admitted headbutting a garda during his arrest at Portlaoise Train Station. 

Sam Garvey, 24, of 156 The Park, Sallins Road, Naas, Co Kildare was arrested at Portlaoise Train Station on March 3, 2022. He was charged with Section 2 assault and being intoxicated and abusive at the station. 

The court was told the assault occurred while Garda Niall Quinn was arresting the defendant for public order offences. 

“Mr Garvey headbutted and caught Garda Quinn on the forehead causing slight bruising and some discomfort,” a garda told  the sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

The man, who has two previous convictions, had little recollection of the incident and was very apologetic afterwards.  

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant was drunk and refusing to leave the train on the date in question.

Defence Counsel Suzanne Dooner said her client had little recollection of the incident and was very apologetic afterwards.

“He was very much addicted to drugs at the time,” she explained. 

Ms Dooner  said her client has completed a 20 week treatment programme since the offence occurred. She said he is also doing a course. 

“He is very ashamed of finding himself before the court,” she said. 

Ms Dooner said her client had written a letter of apology and was “very ashamed and remorseful” over what had happened. 

“He has realised that the gardai were only trying to do their job on the night in question,” she said. 

After reading some testimonials provided to the court, Judge Andrew Cody said he would order a probation and welfare report for the man. 

He adjourned the matter back to Portlaoise District Court on  December 14  for the report.