A man called Patrick involved in a disturbance outside a church on March 17, was fined €500 for his troubles in the District Court this week (May 12 ).
Inspector Nicholas Farrell told the court how Gardai were called to an incident at 9.40pm on Church Street, Athlone on our national day where they encountered the defendant, Patrick Ward (32 ) of Cullairbaun, Athenry, Co Galway.
“He challenged the gardai to a fight, judge,” said Inspector Farrell, who went on to tell the court that of Ward’s 22 previous convictions, eight were for public order offences and two were for assault.
His solicitor, Mr Mark Cooney explained how his client had been in a previous attack that evening and received a blow to the head.
“There had been some drink involved,” he added.
“Is there a date coincidence? I note the defendant’s name is Patrick,” asked Judge John Neilan, but was told there wasn’t.
“Next time you celebrate St Patrick’s Day like that you’ll end up in prison,” said the judge, before fining Ward €500.
