Laois assault charge upgraded to serious harm
A man appeared before a sitting of Portlaoise District Court
Gardai have upgraded a charge in relation to an assault on a man in Portarlington in June.
Ian Barnes (41) of 72 Wilderness Grove, Clonmel, Co Tipperary, had been charged with assault causing harm and is now accused of assault causing serious harm at Main Street, Portarlington, on June 7, 2026.
The defendant appeared before Portlaoise District Court where Detective Garda Paul Kelly said the DPP had directed that the assault causing harm charge be withdrawn.
Det Kelly explained that when he had charged the defendant on the new charge, the man made no reply. He said the DPP had directed that the case proceed on indictment and he asked for a four week adjournment in order to prepare the book of evidence.
Judge Andrew Gubbins released the defendant on bail and noted that he had to surrender his passport as part of the conditions. He removed a curfew which had been imposed after hearing the man had secured work and was due to commence in the coming days.
Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was currently in receipt of social welfare and she was granted legal aid.
Judge Gubbins remanded the man on bail to appear again before Portlaoise District Court on December 12 for service of the book of evidence.