Courts / Dublin / Report

Drunk man found asleep halfway out of car has jail sentence suspended on appeal

Summary

A drunk man who was found asleep halfway out of a car in a church car park and later urinated in a station cell has had his three-month jail term fully suspended on appeal. Ross Giffney (37) was convicted of obstruction of a peace officer, using threatening language, and criminal damage for urinating in the custody area. He was sentenced to four months in custody with one month suspended. On appeal, Judge James O'Donoghue decided to fully suspend the sentence for two years, telling Giffney that if he stepped out of line, the sentence would be activated. The judge also said Giffney must pay the invoice for the cleaning of the garda cell. Defence counsel said her client was remorseful for his actions and had drink on him on the night. Garda Ben Grimes told the court that Giffney had to be roused from sleep by gardai and that he was a danger to himself and others.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Drunk man found asleep halfway out of car has jail sentence suspended on appeal. Charges or matters: criminal damage for urinating in the custody area or cell of Ballymun Garda Station. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Convicted

When:

• June 5, 2023 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2026-02-23 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report