Man accused of issuing threats on TikTok asks to be produced at Laois court

A man who is alleged to have issued threats on social media has asked to be produced at his next court hearing. 

Petre Beniamin (50) of No Fixed Abode, is accused of publishing a grossly offensive communication on TikTok. It’s alleged he published a communication about “slicing up Irish babies, kids and you” with intent to cause harm contrary to Section 4(1) and (3) of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020. 

He was further charged with engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting words with intent to provoke a breach of the peace and demonstrating at the time of the offence, hatred towards the Irish people contrary to the Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024. Both offences were alleged to have been committed at an unknown location in Dublin on May 24 last.

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court via video link. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby told Judge Michael Ramsey that the defendant had chosen to represent himself in court. 

Sgt Kirby said a file had gone to the DPP and directions were awaited in the case. He suggested an adjournment to September 1. Sgt Kirby said the defendant hadn’t looked for bail. 

“I can’t apply for bail today,” the man told Judge Ramsey. 

He agreed to a remand in custody to Portlaoise District Court on September 1. 

Sgt Kirby said “we should have directions by then hopefully.” 

Judge Ramsey remanded the defendant in custody and adjourned the case to Portlaoise District Court on September 1. He ordered that the defendant be produced on that date.