A Limerick man charged with deceiving punters at the Galway Races with a three card trick was given the benefit of the Probation Act.
John Butler (55 ) with an address at 3 Sunshine Villas, Thomondgate, Limerick, appeared at Galway District Court this week where he pleaded guilty to dishonestly by deception inducing persons to lay bets on a three card trick game with the intention of making gain at The Galway Race Course, on July 26, 2011.
Inspector Brendan Carroll told the court that the defendant was at the race course with a large crowd around him while he performed a three card trick.
He added that Butler has nine previous convictions, the last one being for an offence under the street betting act on December 5, 1995.
“I thought that was all part of the races from time immemorial. I’m no expert but is this political correctness gone mad? It’s part of the whole ambience of the races. How much did you get?” asked Judge Mary Fahy
“I got a few quid,” replied Butler.
“I guess you will be paying for your own solicitor,” quipped Judge Fahy before imposing the Probation Act Section 1(1 ).
