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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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Kilkenny Garda Station
A man who admitted criminal damage at Kilkenny Garda Station was handed down a three-month suspended sentence.
Manus McLaughlin, Kinnego, Buncrana, Co Donegal admitted the offence which took place at Kilkenny Garda Station at Dominic Street, Kilkenny on February 8, 2002.
Sergeant Morgan O’Connor outlined to the court that on the date in question a garda, who was working at the station, heard banging from the public and went to see what was happening. The garda observed the defendant forcing the magnetic lock between the public and private areas of the station.
Sgt O’Connor told the court that at the time the defendant was trying to get into the private part of the station as he had heard his friend who was in distress. There was no one at the front desk so he forced open the door.
The court heard that the defendant has five previous convictions.
Solicitor Ed Hughes said that it was his understanding that the door was not physically damaged in the incident.
“He forced the magnetic lock but it could be closed again and there was no cost involved. His friend had been arrested ad he went to the garda station as he thought he could pay money for bail and also to get keys for a van.
“He heard his friend in the holding area and he was in distress,” he said adding that there was ‘drink on board’ and the defendant decided to ‘force the magnetic lock’.
Judge Geraldine Carthy told the court that in sentencing the defendant she was taking into account his plea and the mitigating factors outlined to the court.
“There is no doubt about it. The matter before the court is quite concerning .
“It beggars belief that when the defendant heard his friend in distress in the garda station he tried to break in. I have no doubt that alcohol was involved,” she added.
Judge Carthy imposed a three month sentence which she suspended for 12 months.
Recognisances were also fixed in the case on his own bond of €300 and on the conditions that he be of sober habits and keep the peace.
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