Adult cautions administered following fracas at Oriel Park

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

Three people accused of public order offences at Oriel Park have been dealt with by way of adult caution when their cases came back before Dundalk District Court.

They were among five individuals associated with Dundalk FC summonsed following an incident at the Carrick Road venue on October 18, 2024, in the wake of a 2-0 defeat to Derry City which confirmed the home team’s relegation to the League of Ireland First Division.

Jason McConville (37), Áth Leathan, Racecourse Road, Dundalk; former joint-owner of the club, Andrew Connolly (60) and Ava Connolly (20) both of Tankardsrock, Kilkerley, Dundalk; were each summonsed for using or engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words, while Mr. McConville was also accused of assault.

Their cases had previously been adjourned so adult cautions could be administered, and the court heard that had taken place.

Judge Nicola Andrews struck out all matters.

The Probation Act was applied on a charge of using or engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words, against then Dundalk FC owner, John Temple (45), Rathcor, Riverstown, Dundalk, after he donated €500 to North Louth Hospice as previously directed by Judge Stephanie Coggans.

Mr Temple had pleaded guilty to the summons stemming from the same incident.

However, he asked for his case to be recalled, and told Judge Andrews that as a barrister he had admitted the offence on the basis that if he made the donation the matter would be struck out.

He submitted that he was eligible for an adult caution and said that applying Section 1 (1) of the Probation Act would remain on the Garda PULSE system.

The judge subsequently vacated her original order and struck out the matter simpliciter (unconditionally).

A fifth person remains before the court. He is contesting the same public order offence and two counts of alleged assault.