Infatuatedwith workcolleague

A 38-year-old woman who was infatuated with her then work colleague, has appeared before the district court.

Caroline Mallon, 396 Beechmount Drive, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to harassing another woman on multiple dates between 1 September, 2016 and 13 December, 2016.

Defence solicitor Niall Lavery described this as an ‘unusual’ charge of harassment.

It was an unrequited friendship. His client believed a work relationship was more than it was.

There was no malice, violence or threats involved, rather the defendant was infatuated with the other person, and was sending presents to her.

She has no previous convictions, and lost her job as a result of this.

Judge Coughlan indicated he might strike out the matter, before Sgt Fintan McGroder said he wants the views of the injured party canvassed.

Inspector Ronan Carey added the victim is very distressed about the matter.

Mr. Lavery said there was no suggestion of any contact since, and he believed a victim impact statement is not appropriate in this case.

The judge replied the victim should be consulted, and he would see her in chambers on 5 September next. It’s a matter for her, if she wants to attend the next day.

Judge Coughlan added he has sympathy for the defendant, in what he described as an ‘unfortunate’ case.