Accused of damaging lock, glass, phone and alarms at Laois hotel

A man is accused of causing a “considerable amount of damage” to a hotel in Laois.  

Daniel Lee (28) of 9 Stoney Meadows, Old Cratloe Road, Limerick is accused of criminal damage at the Midlands Park Hotel, Jessop Street, Portlaoise on January 24, 2025. 

He is accused of being intoxicated and engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour along with seven counts of criminal damage at the hotel. 

It is alleged he caused €500 of damage to a fire alarm, €1,000 damage to a door locking mechanism and frame, €100 damage to a landline phone, €250 damage to a smoke alarm, €200 damage to a wall light,  €200 to a room sign number and €50 to various glass. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the damage total allegedly amounted to €2,409.35.  

“Allegedly he caused a great deal of damage to the hotel,” said Sgt Kirby.

Judge John Brennan said “it is a considerable deal of damage but I will accept jurisdiction.” 

He ordered disclosure to solicitor Barry Fitzgerald, who requested legal aid for his client.

“Why is he not working?” asked Judge Brennan, who noted there was full employment at present. 

“He can’t get a job,” said Mr Fitzgerald.

Judge Brennan granted legal aid and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on April 7.