Cuffs 'too tight' for Crettyard man
A CRETTYARD man who was discovered by gardaí attempting to break the steering lock of his friend's car was given a suspended sentence at last week's district court.
Keith McMahon, of Newtown, Crettyard, faced charges of being intoxicated and using threatening or abusive behaviour in public, arising from an incident that occurred at Church St, Portlaoise, on March 1 of this year.
Garda Inspector Martin Cashen gave evidence that at 3.05am on that date, a garda patrol found the defendant attempting to break the steering lock of a car belonging to a friend of his, who was also present. Garda arrested McMahon and put him into the patrol car, where he attempted to kick the back window of the vehicle. There was also a “physical altercation” between McMahon and Garda Stephens, who had to sit in the back seat to restrain McMahon.
Defending, Mr Philip Meagher drew the court’s attention to a psychiatric report and claimed that McMahon had been suffering from drugs and alcohol difficulties for years. On the night in question, McMahon had travelled to Portlaoise to meet friends and a lot of drink was consumed. His friend lost his car keys and when the garda arrived, the owner of the car was present as McMahon attempted to break the steering lock.
“He reacted completely inappropriately when the garda came along,” Mr Meagher said. “He took umbrage when the handcuffs were put on him, as they were perhaps too tight.”
McMahon was given a three-month sentence, suspended on condition that he keep the peace for six months. He was also ordered not to consume alcohol, and not to enter licensed premises.
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Saturday 25 May 2013
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