A young man who was so determined to get a bottle of Buckfast back that he poked a garda aggressively in the chest has been given the benefit of the Probation Act.
Nineteen-year-old Bob Reid with an address at 17 Convent Park, Kinvara, was brought before Galway District Court this week where he pleaded guitly to being intoxicated in a public place, threatening and abusive behaviour, and refusing to give a name and address at Eglinton Street on September 2, 2010.
Inspector Ernie White told the court that at 12.30am the defendant was observed taking part in a “heated exchange” and that gardai approached and took a bottle of Buckfast from another male. In response Reid went up to the garda, said that the bottle was his and demanded it back. He then “poked” the garda in the chest and when requested to desist from such actions Reid told the garda to “fuck off”.
When questioned by Judge David Anderson about his work history, Reid said that he had been working before the summer but he was now unemployed. He added that there was no work and he intended to perhaps emigrate to Australia. Regarding the bottle of Buckfast Reid later explained it had belonged to his friend and that he had not touched a drop in years.
“If you get a conviction you may not get in [to Australia]. They’re very touchy down there. Should I spare them your presence?” asked Judge Anderson.
“I’d rather you didn’t,” replied Reid.
After consideration Judge Anderson gave the defendant a chance and applied the Probation Act Section 1(1 ) but warned that “it won’t happen again”.
