Suspended sentence for highly intoxicated man with thirty previous convictions who was abusive to gardai in Offaly

A SUSPENDED sentence was handed down to a man who had 30 previous convictions at Tullamore District Court recently.

In his evidence to the court, Sergeant Brendan Kearns said that on August 8, 2023, Gardai were called to O'Connell Street, Birr, where a man was highly intoxicated. Stephen Curley (32) The Pike Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary, became abusive to gardai. 

He had 30 previous convictions, 15 for public order, one for drugs offences,  two for assaults and criminal damage.  He had also been disqualified from driving previously. He also had a conviction for criminal damage. 

Solicitor Patrick Martin said Mr Curley was not working but is hoping to get a job. He had damaged his shoulder. He said his previous convictions go back some time. He is bipolar and suffers from psychosis. He wasn't taking his medication at the time. He apologises to the court. 

Mr Curley has one child, the child's mother is unable to take care of the child and he is trying to get the child back, Mr Martin said. The defendant also attends AA meetings. 

Judge Andrew Cody said he would give the defendant one last chance but noted his previous convictions. 

He imposed a three month sentence which he suspended for two year and fined Mr Curley €500.