‘Roaring and shouting’ in bank — man found with knife

A 70-year-old man who shouted abuse at staff in a Ballinamore bank and later became aggressive towards Gardaí was found to be carrying a flip knife when searched in custody, Carrick-on-Shannon District Court heard.

Thomas Mullan, of 1 Dalton’s Apt, St Brigid’s Street, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim, appeared before Judge Sandra Murphy on March 25.

The court heard that Mullan entered the Bank of Ireland on Main Street, Ballinamore, on February 10, 2025, and began shouting and using abusive language toward staff in front of customers.

When Gardaí arrived, Mullan became aggressive and was arrested under Section 6 of the Public Order Act. He was taken to the Garda station, where a flip knife was discovered in the pocket of his shorts during a search.

The court was told Mullan has no previous convictions. His solicitor, Ciaran White, said his client suffers from ongoing mental health issues and is currently an outpatient with Sligo mental health services. Mr White also applied for legal aid on Mullan’s behalf.

Judge Murphy granted the application and said: “I’ll adjourn the matter to allow time for a psychiatric report,” noting Mullan’s treatment status.

A charge of threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour was struck out.

The case was adjourned to Carrick-on-Shannon District Court on June 24, 2025.

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