Wicklow man admits assault on ex-girlfriend but denies other charges
The Wicklow PeopleA Wicklow man has to pleaded guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend, but denies other charges related to theft and damaging property.
Leon Cooney (37), of 51 Ardmore Wood, Herbert Road, Bray, pleaded guilty at Bray District Court to assaulting his ex-girlfriend. However, he pleaded not guilty to charges of stolen property and damaging property to the value of €140.
The court heard that on December 29, 2025, Mr Cooney entered a room where his then-girlfriend was, and an argument ensued. The row was sparked by a disagreement over money. Mr Cooney allegedly took €30 from his ex-girlfriend’s purse, an incident he denies.
Mr Cooney then struck his ex-girlfriend across the head with a pint glass. Judge David Kennedy was shown a copy of the medical report detailing the victim’s injuries sustained during the altercation.
The court was told that Mr Cooney made a full admission to the assault when arrested by gardaí. Brendan Maloney, solicitor for the defendant, told the court that his client had endured an extremely difficult childhood, saying he had “fallen through the cracks”.
Mr Maloney also informed the court that his client had a strong work history, having worked as a plumber and risen to the position of supervisor. Counsel added that Mr Cooney developed an addiction to cocaine, which “destroyed all aspects of his life”. He said his client also suffers from mental health issues and has a close “bond” with his 21-year-old daughter.
Mr Cooney is currently incarcerated on unrelated matters. He works in the prison kitchen and has engaged with addiction services.
“There is a decent human being in there,” said Mr Maloney, adding: “The root is in the drug problem, but he is mending his ways.”
Judge Kennedy adjourned the assault charge to October 23, 2025, for a victim impact report before sentencing. Mr Cooney is also due back before Bray District Court on November 6, 2025, to be served with a book of evidence for the charges of stolen property and criminal damage.
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