Man was shouting at woman in a square in Laois

A man appeared in court via video link in relation to a public order incident in Portlaoise. 

William Phelan (67) of Paddock, Mountrath was accused of engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour at Lyster Square, Portlaoise on June 20, 2022.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the injured party had gone to speak to a person she knew when the defendant allegedly began shouting at her. He said the man was serving a lengthy sentence and is well known to the court. The defendant is due to be released from prison on January 21, 2031, said Sgt Kirby. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was pleading guilty to the offence. 

Noting the early and the man’s release date, Judge Nicola Andrews struck out the charge.