Judge making ‘no promises’ to Longford man accused of public order offence
Situation 'got out of hand and should never have made its way onto the street'
A defendant accused of a public order offence, despite being on a peace bond, will have the charges against him reviewed in November.
Sean Flynn (55) of Ballymahon Road, Edgeworthstown, Longford was before Judge Bernadette Owens facing a charge that on December 27, 2023 at Mostrim Oaks, Ballymahon Road, Edgeworthstown he engaged in threatening and abusive behaviour.
Outlining details of the offence Sergeant Enda Daly said the matter arose from a dispute between neighbours. Officers attending at the scene found the defendant shouting abuse at another person.
When Mr Flynn refused to calm down he was arrested at his neighbours front door. Once arrested he calmed down and apologised for his behaviour.
The court heard the defendant has 18 previous convictions.
Solicitor John Quinn explained that the conflict arose from a row between Mr Flynn and his first cousin: “It got out of hand and should never have made its way onto the street,” he said.
Mr Quinn said the parties had “fully made up”. The solicitor acknowledged a Peace Bond Mr Flynn has previously entered: “Technically he is in breach of that peace bond,” Mr Quinn said.
In reply Judge Owens said: “It's more than a technical breach.”
Mr Quinn explained that his client has “put trouble behind him”, adding “You will not see him in court again.”
Noting the facts of the case, the defendant's co-operation and his early apology Judge Owens said she would remand Mr Flynn on bail to November for a review.
The judge gave Gardaí liberty to re enter the matter should the defendant come to their attention and concluded by telling Mr Flynn she was making “no promises” about her decision.