Axe handle assault in Midlands turf rumours row

A man was assaulted with an axe handle in a dispute over turf rumours, last week’s Tullamore District Court heard.

Before the court was James Fitzgerald,(43) of 62, The Green, Clara.

In his evidence, Sergeant James O’Sullivan said that on February 2, 2023 Mr Fitzgerald confronted a neighbour at the Green, Clara over a rumour that he was allegedly spreading about him. Words were exchanged.

Mr Fitzgerald went home and returned with an axe handle and hit the injured party to the head. The neighbour received a cut to his head which required three stitches.

Sgt O'Sullivan said the neighbour has declined to make a statement. He said James Fitzgerald had 14 previous convictions, four for theft but none for assault. He had previously completed 150 hours community service for a public order offence.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly said the offence was completely out of character. He had been drinking at the time. He said the row had been over turf. He described the defendant as a separated man with two children. He said the neighbour didn’t want to press charges.

Judge Andrew Cody fined the defendant €300 and imposed a two-month sentence which he suspended for two years on his own bond of €100.