Smashed taxi window in Portlaoise

A man who smashed a taxi window appeared before Portlaoise District Court with compensation. 

Paul Delaney (43) of 13 O’Moore Place, Portlaoise, caused criminal damage to a taxi at the Mountmellick Road in Portlaoise on July 30, 2024. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the man had brought €588 to court which was compensation for the injured party. 

Anne Doyle BL said her client doesn’t have a job but “collects scrap metal” and is looking for work. She said it was “no mean feat” for him to gather up the compensation. 

Judge Andrew Cody said the injured party was a taxi man and a hard working member of society who was going about his business. 

“This thug got into his car, wouldn’t pay the fare and smashed his window,” he said.

Ms Doyle said “he is someone who is extremely remorseful.” 

Describing it as a serious offence, Judge Cody imposed a two month sentence which he suspended for two years and he fined the man €500 and allowed him six months to pay. 

Sgt Kirby said he would make sure the injured party gets the compensation. 

Judge Cody fixed recognisance in case of appeal at the sitting of  Portlaoise District Court.