Drunken dispute in north Kerry ends with garda van called from next town, court hears
The KerrymanA man who resisted being arrested so strongly that a garda van had to be called from the next town has appeared before Listowel District Court.
Paul Pierce (48) of Doon Road, Ballybunion was charged with resistance and obstruction of gardaí and threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour in a public place.
The court heard that at 3.10am in Ballybunion, a gardai patrol came across Mr Pierce, who appeared intoxicated.
It was alleged Mr Pierce told gardaí he was a solicitor and “aggressively resisted being arrested” to a point where a garda van had to be brought in from Listowel “and two sets of handcuffs used”.
“Had he just walked away, we wouldn’t be here,” Sergeant Stephen O’Brien told the court.
His solicitor said Mr Pierce had actively taken steps to resolve his issues.
“The problem is if he continues with this behaviour,” said Judge David Waters.
“There is no doubt in his mind he was out of order,” said his solicitor. “That is why he’s here, with his hands up before the court.”
The judge convicted and fined Mr Pierce €450 for obstruction and €300 for public order.
“This is the last time I deal with him by way of a fine,” warned the judge.