Man who knew he was breaking the law ordered to make donation to Longford Women's Link

The defendant was previously found guilty of trespass in such a manner it would cause fear in another person in Longford

A defendant charged with trespass has been directed to make a donation of €750 to a Longford charity before the case against him is concluded.

Vitor Vieira (44) of 127 McKeon Park, Longford was previously found guilty of trespass in such a manner it would cause fear in another person on May 31, 2024 at 97 Teffia Park, Longford.

Judge Bernadette Owens had heard details of the matter at an earlier court sitting.

Last Tuesday a victim impact statement was handed in to the judge. The court heard there were no further issues since this incident.

Solicitor for the defendant, Frank Gearty, said, “The victim impact statement does not spare Vitor, he fully accepts the court's decision. He knows that even though he was delivering money for his daughter's birthday he was breaking the law. He is now reaping what he sowed.”

Mr Gearty explained that his client is originally a Portuguese national and came to live in Ireland in 1999. He was in a long term relationship with the victim, but that relationship broke down.

The solicitor told the court the defendant had been the victim of a “catastrophic and dreadful assault” and that the victim had been very supportive through a difficult time for Mr Viera.

Mr Gearty said his client did not wish to make any difficulty for the injured party, and was asking the court for every leniency.

The legal representative said the matter had only been contested so the judge could hear the entire evidence to give context to the offence.

In concluding the case Judge Owens noted the defendant had no relevant previous convictions, was not aggressive at the time, and there were no particularly aggravating factors.

The judge directed that the defendant pay €750 to Longford Women's Link by July 8 next, and if that money is paid she would conclude matters with a small fine.