Called garda ‘the Gestapo’ of Laois

A fine was handed out to a woman who called a garda ‘the Gestapo’ of Laois.  

Aileen Conroy, 44, of Patrick Street, Durrow was accused of allowing her vehicle to be driven by someone who didn’t hold a licence at Patrick Street, Durrow on December 12 last. 

Garda McAteer said the woman was the owner of the vehicle and was in the passenger seat when it was stopped. He said she “hurled abuse” as he was taking the driver’s details. 

“She referred to myself as the Gestapo of Laois and that we were like Nazis and that we should be ashamed of ourselves,” he explained. The woman told the garda he should be out arresting rapists. 

Garda McAteer said the driver has already been dealt with in the court. He said the woman has no previous convictions. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client was a mature student who is doing a HDip in higher education. He said she has a young child. 

Mr Meagher said his client had a difficult pregnancy and birth. 

“She was suffering from a lot of mental turmoil,” he said.

“She was upset she wasn’t fully well on the date in question,” added Mr Meagher. 

He said she had asked her partner to take over the driving and was almost home when they were stopped. He said she apologises. 

Judge Andrew Cody fined the woman €750. 

“She needs to zip it when she meets the Gardai again,” he said.