Intoxicated and abusive on bus in Laois

A man appeared in court for threatening a bus passenger and being intoxicated.

Darren O’Brien, 26, Laccamore, Abbeydorney, Tralee, Co Kerry admitted committing the offences at the M7 Toll Bridge on April 6 last. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused had been acting aggressively and had to be escorted off a bus. He said he sat beside a passenger and “threatened him that he would give him a slap” if the man didn’t give him a cigarette. He said the man had 132 previous convictions. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client had “suffered an appalling” assault a number of years ago and has anxiety ever since. He said the man was on medication and had self prescribed Xanax on the date in question.  

“It was in that context that he was acting so erratically,” he said. 

“He does appreciate that he caused people to be discommoded on the bus,” said Mr Meagher. 

Judge Andrew Cody said it was very concerning that someone aged 26 could have amassed 132 previous convictions. 

“He is somebody since 18 who has committed 13 crimes a year, one every month,” noted Judge Cody.  

“One criminal offence a month since he was 18,” said Judge Cody. 

Judge Cody said the defendant has five convictions so far this year. 

Mr Meagher said his client’s poor record was accepted. 

The offences arise from the defendant on occasion taking alcohol with medication or self prescribing, he said. Mr Meagher said his client had travelled from Tralee to meet the charges. 

Judge Cody said he would remand the man on bail to reappear at Portlaoise District Court on December 7. 

He said he wanted to see some evidence that the man was taking remedial action and he warned the defendant that there would be serious consequences if he offended in the meantime.