Gave ‘middle finger’ to guards

A man who twice stuck up his middle finger at gardaí has donated €300 to the Garda Benevolent Fund to have struck out two public order charges.

Peter Laverty (44), 84 Doolargy Avenue, Muirehvnamór, admitted being intoxicated in public and engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour at Doolargy Avenue on 10 January last.

Evidence was given about him drinking from a can of beer when he stuck his middle finger up at the guards on two occasions at approximately 8.45pm.

Laverty became aggressive and abusive. He has one previous conviction. Solicitor Barry Callan added his client lives with his partner, and has one young child. He offered apolopies on his behalf.

Judge McKiernan remarked it was ‘terrible behaviour’.

Legal aid was granted.