Suspended sentence for Tullamore man for threatening and abusive behaviour
The judge in Tullamore District Court described the man's behaviour as 'drunk and obnoxious'
A MAN was handed down a suspended sentence at Tullamore district court for threatening and abusive behaviour.
Giving evidence Sergeant Brendan Kearns said that on April 30, 2024, Caomhain O'Faolain, Brookville House, Tullamore, entered Tullamore Garda Station and demanded to speak to the superintendent. He was agitated and intoxicated. He was told to leave but he kept pressing the bell at the public counter seeking attention.
Mr O'Faolain had 19 previous convictions, 12 of those were for public order offences. He had previously received the benefit of the probation act for public order offences.
''Drunk and obnoxious would be a good description,'' said Judge Andrew Cody.
Solicitor Patrick Martin said that Mr O'Faolain had complex mental health issues. He had engaged with a number of services. There was no psychiatrist available in Offaly or Laois in the last three months. He said Caomhain O'Faolain is a 49 year old man. His father had died tragically when he was very young. He was quite isolated from others at the moment.
He said he has chronic post traumatic stress disorder and is in need of services following an assault. He has apologised, said Mr Martin.
Judge Andrew Cody said there comes a stage when you have to stand up and take responsibility for your actions. He imposed a three month prison sentence which he suspended for two years on Mr O'Faolain's own bond of €100.
Mr Martin applied for legal aid but Judge Cody recalled that Mr O'Faolain had asked the judge presiding at Mr O'Faolain's previous appearance ''what business it was of hers'' when she asked if he was working in order to ascertain whether he was entitled to free legal aid.
A statement of means was handed to the judge. Granting legal aid Judge Cody said being obnoxious in court or in the garda station won't be stood for in future.