‘A really nice Garda’

A man summoned for offences under the Public Order Act said the prosecuting Garda was “really nice and very professional.”

The remarks were made by Justin Gallagher (37) of Stella Maris, Ballisodare who was charged with engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour at at Market Street on Agust 8th and with failing to comply with the direction of a garda and failing to give his name and address.

Inspector Dennis Harrington said Gardaí on patrol at 4.30am came across the defendant who was very intoxicated.

When spoken to he became aggressive and abusive. He was told to leave the area but he refused while he also didn’t give his name and address.

He had a previous conviction under the Public Order Act and dor drunk driving. He also got the Probation Act on a drugs possession charge.

Mr Mark Mullaney, solicitor (defending) pleaded that the defendant seemed to lose control when he was under the influence of alcohol.

“He was walking home on the occasion and the Gardaí were merely checking on him when he lost the run of himself for no apparent reason,” said Mr Mullaney.

When the defendant was called to the witness box, he said he would like to let Garda Ann Marie Grimes know how sorry he was.

“Perhaps you should write to her” - Judge Kilrane.

“I’d love to do that” - defendant.

Mr Mullaney said the defendant did speak to the Garda on the morning of the court and apologised.

“She’s very nice and very professional.

“Just a really nice Garda,” said the defendant who was fined €300.