Longford man receives suspended prison sentence following public order disturbance

A man has received a suspended prison sentence for a public order incident during the Longford Festival last year.

Michael Mongan (34), 1 Willow Park, Strokestown Road, Longford, appeared before Judge Patricia Cronin last Wednesday at a special hearing sitting of Longford District Court.

The court heard evidence of how Gardaí working the festival on August 28, 2023, were called to the Longford Arms where the manager pointed to a number of people who were “causing a disturbance” at the bar.

The disturbance had died down since the call, and Gardaí asked the people to leave but the accused man insisted on finishing his drink and would not leave, nor would he give his name to Gardaí when asked.

The court heard that Mr Mongan had 11 previous convictions, including some for obstruction of a peace officer and criminal damage.

Judge Cronin, having heard the evidence, noted that the disturbance had “died down” by the time Gardaí had arrived.

“Gardaí gave a certain direction, but Mr Mongan refused to comply and refused to give his name,” she said.

She noted the 11 previous convictions and handed down a three month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months.