A Westport man who has 27 previous convictions was before a special sitting of Castlebar District Court on Monday where Judge Kevin Kilrane told the defendant, who was before court for a public order charge, that as was evident from his demeanour in court, “I don’t think that you care very much”.
Danny Ring, 13 Cloonmonad Close, Westport, was observed by Garda John Murphy to consume alcohol, alongside a group of youths, under the bridge at Knockcroghery, Castlebar, on August 29 2009 at 5.10pm.
When Garda Murphy attempted to seize the alcohol, Ring became threatening and abusive. The defendant called the garda a “wanker” and “a prick” and asked the garda if he “had nothing better to do”. Ring grabbed the alcohol back from Garda Murphy and tried to run away. When arrested, Ring was aggressive and continued to act in such a manner on his way to the Garda station.
According to solicitor Patrick Durcan, this “bad boy” can not remember what he said on the day, however he is very apologetic for his actions. The defendant told the court that he lives with his mother and that he hopes to return to college to become a chef. Superintendent Willie Keaveney said to Ring he had “a deplorable record”. Ring said he has struggled with drink in his life and attended rehab twice, but due to strict bail conditions imposed on him at the moment he is not drinking.
Judge Kilrane said to Ring that from his general demeanour, his approach and his body language, “I don’t think you care very much”. The judge also noticed that Ring brought a drink with him into court, Judge Kilrane said “this is not a restaurant” and there you are “swigging coffee” before you come into the witness box.
The judge remanded Ring on continuing bail to Ballina Children’s Court on October 1 2010 and warned if he re-offends in the meantime he would spend three months in prison, “Is that loud and clear?” Judge Kilraine asked him. “Sound, ya,” Ring replied.
