Deportation order flagged by probation service in assault case in the Midlands

A court heard a man might not be able to complete community service as he is the subject of a deportation order. 

Billel Benahmed (34) with an address at Cluain Mhuire, Pallaskenry, Co Limerick admitted a Section 2 assault at Cappakeel, Portlaoise on June 30, 2022. 

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court where a probation report had been compiled. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant had no previous convictions.

On reading the report, Judge Andrew Cody said “it appears that he isn’t suitable for community service.” He also said the defendant was “dishonest” about the incident. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said, “he does admit the offence. He just disagrees with the circumstances surrounding it.” 

“He is currently under a deportation order but nobody has taken steps to execute that,” she explained. 

She said he hadn’t been found not suitable but the probation service had “flagged” the fact that there was a deportation order. She said an issue might arise where community service was directed but couldn’t be finished if he is deported. She said he had attended all of the community service appointments. 

Judge Cody handed the man a one month sentence which he suspended for two years. 

At the request of Ms Fitzpatrck, he fixed recognisance in case of appeal.