'Coming to the end of the road', Judge warns Letterkenny man on public order charge

A Letterkenny man who became aggressive towards Gardai when they were called to a disturbance in Falcarragh has been warned he is “coming to the end of the road”.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham issued the stern message to Ryan Scanlon when he appeared before Falcarragh District Court.

The 24-year-old, with an address at Meadowbank Park, Letterkenny, was before the court in relation to an incident at Ballina Cottages, Falcarragh on November 12, 2023.

Inspector Seamus McGonigle told the court that Scanlon, who was highly intoxicated, was having an argument with his girlfriend and Gardai were called to the scene.

Inspector McGonigle said Scanlon became threatening and abusive to officers who arrived. After resisting arrest, Scanlon had to be restrained and was arrested.

The court heard that Scanlon has several previous convictions, including for the possession of knives, public order offences, a conviction under the Misuse of Drugs Act and some road traffic convictions.

“A recurring theme,” remarked Judge Cunningham.

Scanlon’s solicitor, Mr Patsy Gallagher, said his client was under the influence of alcohol and has a difficulty with alcohol. “There was nothing more sinister than that,” Mr Gallagher said.

“We are coming to the end of the road,” Judge Cunningham said. Scanlon was convicted and fined €200 with five months to pay.