Longford District Court: Man apologises for being abusive
Man told gardaí “f*ck off”
A man who told gardaí “f*ck off” has been ordered to pay the sum of €250 to Bridgeways Family Resource Centre to avoid a criminal conviction.
Gerard Keane (57) of 29 The Laurels, Ballinalee Road, Longford, told Judge Bernadette Owens that he was pleading guilty and didn't need a solicitor when he appeared before her last week at Longford District Court.
Sergeant Enda Daly, for the state, gave evidence that, on April 7, 2024, at 9.10pm on Ballymahon Street, Longford, Gardaí received reports of a male acting suspiciously, who matched the description of the defendant.
When Gardaí arrived, they observed Mr Keane, who was “very unsteady on his feet” and noticed a “strong smell of liquor”.
“He told gardaí to f*ck off and was arrested for his own safety,” said Sgt Daly.
Addressing the court on his own behalf, Mr Keane said, “I'm just guilty. I'm sorry. I want to apologise.”
Judge Owens noted the accused had no previous convictions, “which would indicate that this was very much out of character”.
She gave him the opportunity to pay €250 to Bridgeways Family Resource Centre in Ballymahon, giving him until May 15 to do so.