Man (23) being searched threw his shoe at Gardaí

A 23-year-old man who threw his shoe at Gardaí and told them they were “messing with the wrong crew” needed to be taught a lesson said Judge Kevin Kilrane at Sligo District Court.

Before the court was Shane McGuinness of Donaghbeg, Manorhamilton who was under a suspended sentence at the time of the incident at Connaughton Road when Gardaí approached a car with four men in it.

Inspector Paul Kilcoyne said the four men were drinking in the car on June 23rd last and were abusive when approached by the Gardaí.

A search was carried out and the defendant was asked to remove his shoes as part of this.

McGuinness threw one of the shoes at the Gardaí and told them they had messed with the wrong crew. He continued to be abusive and was arrested.

McGuinness had two previous convictions including one for assault causing harm and received a six months sentence on July 13th 2016 which was suspended.

Mr Gerard McGovern, solicitor (defending) pleaded that the defendant’s parents were in court and they were upset that their son was out and about at night saying such things to Gardaí.

Judge Kilrane said the defendant has to be taught a lesson. He was on a suspended sentence while he insulted the Gardaí and attempted to assault them.

The Judge said the excuse of too much alcohol is often given and he wondered why young men go out and get blind drunk and then assault and abuse people.

They then came into court saying they cannot remember and blame alcohol.

“The question is, is it in character or out of character?” he asked.

The Judge jailed McGuinness for three months on a charge of failing to comply with the direction of a Garda but suspended the term for two years provided he wasn’t convicted of any offence for the next two years.

A fine of €200 was imposed for being intoxicated.