Man (24) grabbed Louth garda by the genitalia and wouldn’t let go
A man who grabbed a Garda by the genitals and wouldn’t let go was “brought under control” after the officer’s colleagues used batons and pepper spray, the district court has been told.
Destiny Isijola (24), Riverside Crescent, Newry Road, Dundalk, who has no previous convictions, had initally called for the assistance of Gardaí when he attempted to retrieve belongings after being kicked out of his father’s house.
He pleaded guilty to assault, using or engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words and failing to comply with the direction of a Garda.
Judge Derek Cooney said what the defendant did to the guard was “appalling” as he adjourned the case for a community service report.
It was stated on Mr Isijola’s behalf that he had not been in trouble since the incident two years ago and aspired to be a bus driver.
Court presenter Sgt Richie Browne said that at 8.30pm on March 4, 2024, Gardaí responded to a call to Riverside Crescent. It was made by the accused who wanted to retrieve his property from a house.
The homeowner, his father, allowed him inside as long as Gardaí remained.
Mr Isijola became agitated when he couldn’t locate some items.
As the situation escalated, Sgt Browne continued, he agreed to leave only to return to the front of the house.
The defendant refused to engage with Gardaí. He was given a direction to leave the area but continued to point at the house in a threatening manner.
On being informed that he was going to be arrested, he resisted and grabbed one of the officers by the genitilia and “squeezed tightly causing considerable pain”.
The court heard that the man refused to desist. Batons had to be used to get him to let go.
Sgt Browne said Mr Isijola continued to lash out. Pepper spray was deployed and he was “eventually brought under control”.
The injured officer remained on duty. He didn’t seek medical assistance. He was in discomfort for a number of days.
Barrister Niall Mackin said that his client was extremely apologetic. His father had kicked him out of the house.
He was on a back-to-work scheme and wanted to be a bus driver.
This was an isolated incident. He had not come to attention since.
Judge Cooney said he had grabbed the guard in this manner and his colleagues had to draw their batons and pepper spray him to effect an arrest.
Mr Mackin said that Mr Isijola was aware that the Gardaí were there to assist him. There was raised temper and anxiety.
Counsel asked the court to consider community service and for an opportunity for the defendant to apologise.
"I won’t tolerate this behaviour to Gardaí, especially when they are trying to help someone,” Judge Cooney remarked.
He added it was appalling to do that to a guard.
Destiny Isijola was remanded on continuing bail to April 15 for a community service report and to have €250 for the victim as a gesture.
The judge said that he should make an earnest apology to the officer.