A man on a drug cultivation charge had the judge enter a not guilty plea on his behalf after he refused to recognise the court’s jurisdiction.
Before Judge David Anderson in the District Court this week (September 1 ) was Francis Breslin (25 ), from John Paul Park, Athlone, who was charged with the cultivation of three cannabis plants after a Garda search of his home on March 20.
“Are you Francis Breslin?” asked the judge.
“Allegedly,” said Breslin, who was defending himself for the third time this year.
When he was asked whether he understood the charge or not, Breslin answered: “I comprehend it but I refuse to stand under it. I wish to address the court”.
“Later,” said Judge Anderson, shaking his head.
Then, when told by the judge that this charge could yet be heard “at trial by indictment before a judge and jury” in the Circuit Court if he so decided, the defendant again demanded to address the court.
“You’ll address this court when I say you can,” said Judge Anderson, who again asked Breslin if he wished to enter a plea on the charges before him.
“I accept your oath of office and your duties to the men and women of Eire but I don’t wish to contract with the court today...I reserve all my rights and relinquish none of them,’ pontificated Breslin.
Judge Anderson told the court clerk to enter a plea of not guilty on the charge sheet on his behalf.
“Are you entering a plea for me?” asked the defendant.
“This matter will go to trial on a not guilty plea on September 30 whether you’re here or not. Do you understand?” Judge Anderson told him.
“I comprehend that,” said Breslin.
“You should have a solicitor with you,” concluded the judge.
