Adjournment for woman who damaged 11 cars

A 38-year-old Enniscorthy woman who damaged 11 cars outside St Senan’s Hospital in Enniscorthy has had sentencing adjourned.

Martina Balfe of Templescoby, Enniscorthy, pleaded guilty to the damage of vehicles at St. Senan’s Hospital on July 29, 2015, belonging to Donal Farrell, Helen White, Rory Nolan, Paul Monahan, Eamon Dempsey, Colman Grey, Yvonne Martin, Miriam Morrissey, Lucy Knowles, Michelle Kelly and Bob Bent.

Sgt Ray Heffernan told the court that the cars belonged to people working at the hospital. The total damage amounted to €4222.28.

He said the defendant was in the hospital for a meeting with HSE staff with a view to having access to her four children. She became distressed and on leaving, caused the damage to the cars with an object like a key.

Sgt Heffernan said the defendant made certain admissions. She later pleaded guilty and accepted her wrong doings.

Defence Counsel Ms Jacqueline Curran told the court that the defendant made a voluntary statement giving full admissions. She has four children, who are in care, while this is her first time before the Circuit Court as Judge Gerard Haughton refused jurisdiction in the case.

Ms Curran said that the defendant is alcohol dependant, has severe psychiatric difficulties and has a history of coming before the courts.

Ms Curran said prison would be of no benefit to her – adding that Ms Balfe’s court appearance co-incided with one of her children’s birthday.

Judge Cormac Quinn said he would impose a sentence, but he would put the matter back, taking in mind the report of Dr. Andrews. He remanded her in her own bond of €200 on condition that she sign on at Enniscorthy Garda Station each day and remain sober. He also ordered a curfew from 10p.m. to 8a.m., and also to furnish the court with an address within 48 hours.

He adjourned the matter to June 27 for sentencing.