Courts / Dublin / Report

Attempt to set garda car alight may have been "cry for help"

Summary

Gavin O'Donovan, 30, was arrested after attempting to set an unmarked Garda patrol car on fire outside Rathmines Garda Station. He had placed blue industrial tissue paper soaked in diesel into the car's exhaust, carried a lighter and matches, and later admitted to drinking 12 cans of lager and vodka, feeling suicidal and worried for himself. Garda Niall Freaney and defence lawyer Rory Mulvany described O'Donovan as not in his right mind and suggested his actions may have been a cry for help. Judge Cormac Quinn noted the diesel would not have ignited but found O'Donovan's intentions clear. He pleaded guilty to attempted arson on November 9, 2018, and was given a suspended two‑year prison term, with the judge recognising his efforts to address substance addiction and his remorse for the night's actions.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Attempt to set garda car alight may have been "cry for help". Charges or matters: attempted arson on the Rathgar Road, Dublin on November 9, 2018. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• November 9, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2019-03-06 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report