Woman assaulted garda and was intoxicated at train station in Laois

A woman admitted assaulting a garda and behaving aggressively during two incidents at Portlaoise Train Station.

Michaela Connolly (26) of Clogheen, Monasterevin, Kildare admitted being intoxicated, engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour and obstructing gardai at Portlaoise Train Station on August 7, 2024. 

She further admitted being intoxicated and engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour at the same train station and assaulting a garda at Portlaoise Garda Station on December 6, 2024.   

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the first incident occurred at Portlaoise Train Station at  12.05am. He said the defendant was intoxicated and refused to leave the train.

“She kicked Sgt Colin O’Leary in the upper thigh area,” said Sgt Kirby. 

On the second occasion, Sgt Kirby said the woman was “shouting and causing a scene” and she had to be arrested. 

“She had to be pepper sprayed,” said Sgt Kirby. He explained that a female garda was “kicked in the hip”  by the defendant on the day.  He said the accused had no previous convictions.   

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client was “using alcohol as a crutch” at the time. “She had been going through a particularly difficult break up,” he said. 

“She apologises profusely for her behaviour in relation to both incidents,” said Mr Meagher. 

“She has no recollection of these events occurring,” he said. 

He said the woman has engaged with a psychiatrist and was dealing with her issues. He said when not under the influence of drink she is particularly polite and decent. 

Judge Susan Fay described the offences as very serious. She referred the woman to the probation services and asked that she be assessed for restorative justice. 

Judge Fay ordered a probation report and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on June 9.