Man discovered trespassing in Louth haybarn asks for more time in jail

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

A 50-year-old man who pleaded guilty to trespassing has been granted his request for more time in prison.

Beniamin Petre, no fixed abode, Dublin 1, had been in custody since his arrest on September 1. When brought to court the next day he made no application for bail.

At Drogheda Court on Monday Judge Stephanie Coggans sentenced him to one week imprisonment from September 1.

However, barrister Eoghan Fagan said that “somewhat unusually” he was asking for a longer sentence.

Mr Petre had difficulties outside of custody and was “more comfortable” inside.

The judge remarked it was "unusual alright”. She imposed a one-week sentence from September 8.

Court presenter Sgt John O’Hehir said that Gardaí were alerted to a man acting suspiciously and with the assistance of the Air Support Unit they located the accused in a haybarn at Philipstown, Louth.

He had no excuse for being there and was arrested and charged.

The defendant admitted without reasonable excuse, trespassing on a haybarn in such a manner as caused or was likely to cause fear in another person.

There were 15 previous convictions, including for assault, possession of knives, theft and public order.