'Your criminal behaviour has to stop’: Former Limerick teacher in hot water over drinking

A FORMER school teacher with 54 previous convictions has been charged with two new public order offences - one of which he refutes. 

Peter O’Loughlin, of no fixed abode, was brought before the Limerick City District Court for allegedly shouting aggressively at the public while swinging a wine bottle on O’Connell Street, Limerick. 

Following the incident, the 41-year-old-man was brought to Henry Street Garda Station by Garda Keegan on November 6. 

The court heard that Garda Keegan alleges that the man spat at him, which Mr O’Loughlin - appearing via video link - denied. 

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Mr O’Loughlin spoke out of turn during the court proceedings, and alleged that he was pepper sprayed by a garda while handcuffed. 

Judge Patricia Harney told the man “It would appear to me being pepper sprayed is the least of his problems” and ordered the man’s audio to be muted. 

The Judge, unimpressed with the man’s previous convictions, stated: “Your criminal behaviour has to stop” and “Up with this we will not put”.

Solicitor Darach McCarthy said that Mr O’Loughlin is “A young man, just over 40 years of age.” 

The solicitor said that man has “had every chance”, and is a qualified school teacher who suffers from “mental health issues. 

He further divulged that the man previously was caring for family members, and then became homeless. 

Judge Harney said Mr O’Loughlin previously did not show any interest in engaging with mental health services and assessments. 

Mr O’Loughlin is contesting the section six public order charge - which relates to threatening and aggressive behaviour in public. A hearing for the offence will be held at a later date. 

Judge Harney convicted and fined the man €200 for section four public order. 

This article was funded by the Court Reporting Scheme.