Man kicked and punched on the ground in Midlands takeaway

A man who pushed another man continued to assault him while he was on the ground, last week's district court heard.

On November 9, 2022, John Kearns entered Tony's Chippers, Connacht Street, Birr. As he approached the counter Dylan Murdoch (22), 11 Scurragh, Birr, pushed him onto the ground, he stood over the injured party, punching him and kicking him in an agitated state.

Mr Kearns was brought to hospital with facial injuries and brusing to his body. He attended the A&E department. Afterwards, Mr Kearns refused to make a statement.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly said even though Mr Kearns didn't make any complaints, Mr Murdoch (22) had come forward at the earliest opportunity with a plea of guilty.

He had no previous convictions and was in court with his mother. He had taken full responsibility. He suffered from ADHD and was on disability. He had brought €2,000 with him to court, €700 of which he had saved from his disability allowance while his mother had come up with the rest. He had also written a letter to the judge.

He had been out in the company of his girlfriend and remarks were passed. He took exception to this, Mr Farrelly said.

Judge Andrew Cody referred Mr Murdach to the restorative justice programme and he put the case back to November 22, 2023 for finalisation.