Charges of assault are struck out after payment

A man who assaulted a 73-year-old lady, whose business adjoins his in an industrial unit, has had charges of assault and causing criminal damage struck out.

In January, Hojatullah Surkahrezi (46), 1 Norvue House, Rope Walk, Drogheda, admitted the two offences which occurred at Greenhills Industrial Estate, on 2 March, 2017.

Evidence was given the victim was concerned her premises would go on fire when the accused was burning materials. Surkahrezi ‘very much over-reacted’.

The victim told the court: ‘I was assaulted. I was terrified. I still am. I have to work in a unit in the same industrial estate.’

Previously, Judge Coughlan said he wanted €10,000 compensation for the lady.

However, the court was told the victim was instead agreeable to Surkahrezi paying €1,000 for damage caused to a vehicle, covering her legal costs and donating €2,000 to the Women’s Refuge.

Last week, the judge heard all that has been done, and he said he would strike out the entire matter.