Court hears Longford man used slash-hook to damage 'sister-in-law's BMW car

A 38 year old Longford man who admitted producing a slash hook during the course of a dispute as well as having carried out criminal damage to a car window is facing a possible sentence of 140 hours' community service.

William Nevin of 68 Grian Ard, Ardnacassa, Longford pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to two offences, which included a charge under the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, relating to June 10 2025.

Sergeant Mark Mahon, for the State, said the incident took place at 9am at Ardnacassa when the defendant produced a slash hook 'in a manner likely unlawfully to intimidate another person, an article capable of inflicting serious injury'.

"William was observed on CCTV damaging a BMW car with a slash hook and the damage done was approximately €150."

Sgt Mahon said a second charge stated that on the same date - in Oakvale, Ardnacassa - Mr Nevin allegedly damaged property, namely a small car window at the back of the vehicle.

READ NEXT: Major step forward for Longford and Midlands tabletop gaming community

The defendant had 11 previous convictions, including two for violent disorder.

Sgt Mahon outlined Mr Nevin's last conviction was imposed at Longford Circuit Court in October 2022 for violent disorder when he received a five year prison sentence which was suspended for 10 years and he was bound to the peace for 10 years.

"So, this breaches that judge," he added.

Judge Bernadette Owens asked solicitor John Anderson, defending, if there was a connection between the parties and he replied that there was.

"There is to a degree judge, Mr Nevin's brother is married to the person who owns the car."

Mr Anderson said his client was pleading guilty but he claimed there had been extenuating circumstances and he 'respectfully suggested' a probation report could be of benefit to the court.

Judge Bernadette Owens directed that a probation report is completed on the defendant to include a community service assessment and she indicated, if deemed suitable, she would impose 140 hours of community service in lieu of five months imprisonment.

She subsequently adjourned the case until May 19 next.

READ NEXT: Longford family wins the BIG top prize on National Lottery scratch card