Man found in dressing gown 'shouting and pointing at neighbour's house' in Longford estate ordered to pay €400 to charity

Thomas Meskauskas (45) of 11 The Willows, Clonbalt Woods, Longford was charged with three breaches of the public order act; the first on November 12, 2022 and other two on April 14 2023. Two of the charges were for engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour, the other for public intoxication.

Sergeant Conor McShane said that on November 12, 2022 Longford Garda Station received a call regarding a disturbance at The Willows, Clonbalt Woods.

When the officers arrived they found a male in his dressing gown in a very intoxicated state shouting and pointing at the neighbours house.

The Gardaí asked him to go home, but he refused and continued to shout and roar. The defendant was arrested and brought to Longford Garda Station where he continued to be aggressive. The incident in April was similar.

Judge Owens was told the defendant has one previous conviction for criminal damage. Solicitor Frank Gearty said the incident was “out of character” for his client who is in full time employment as a driver.

Mr Gearty said Mr Meskauskas supports his partner and child. The legal representative said the defendant had consumed a lot of alcohol which is “unusual for him”. The solicitor pointed out that there have been no further difficulties and added that Mr Meskauskas cooperated with the Garda and made a full and frank interview as well as an early plea.

Mr Gearty said his client wished to extend his apology to both the Gardaí and the court.

Judge Bernadette Owens said she would give the defendant an opportunity to avoid a conviction if he makes a €400 charity donation to St Christopher's Services, Longford.

The judge then adjourned the matter to June 2 stating that if Mr Meskauskas has made the charity donation on that date she will deal with the charges under Section 1.1 of the Probation Act.