Man denies public order offences in Portlaoise

A man appeared in court accused of public order offences in Portlaoise. 

John McGhee,45, with an address at Streamstown, Horseleap, Moate, Co Westmeath appeared in court in relation to an incident at Fitzmaurice Place, Portlaoise on September 9 last. 

He is accused of threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with the directions of a garda and distributing or displaying a sign which was threatening, abusive, insulting or obscene with intent to provoke a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether a breach of the peace occurs at Fitzmaurice Place on the date in question.

Judge Andrew Cody as the defendant whether he had a solicitor. The accused said he didn’t have a solicitor and that he was pleading not guilty. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said a file was being compiled for the DPP.  He said there may or may not be further charges. 

“What are  the other charges, judge,” the defendant asked. 

Judge Andrew Cody said he didn’t know. He asked the defendant if he would consent to an eight week adjournment. 

“I would sooner four weeks,” the accused replied. 

Judge Cody remanded the man on bail to reappear at Portlaoise District Court on October 19.