Woman fined €1,250 after drunken assault on garda at Wicklow garda station
The Wicklow PeopleA Dublin woman who assaulted a garda while intoxicated has been fined €1,250, after the court heard the incident was completely out of character.
Hazel Gahan (37), of St Brigid’s Cottages, Naas Road, Clondalkin, Dublin, appeared at a sitting of Bray District Court for finalisation following the preparation of a probation report.
Ms Gahan pleaded guilty to intoxication in a public place, two counts of assault, and one count of obstructing a peace officer in the execution of their duty.
The court heard that while on patrol on September 14, 2024, gardaí observed Ms Gahan outside an apartment complex at Elgin Heights, Bray. When gardaí spoke to the defendant, they detected a strong smell of alcohol, and she was subsequently brought to Bray Garda Station.
The court was told that Ms Gahan punched a garda sergeant in the chest and struck the on-site doctor. The Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew the assault charge relating to the doctor, as he did not wish to make a complaint.
The accused has no previous convictions.
In mitigation, solicitor Michael O’Connor told the court that his client had been at a friend’s house, had consumed too much alcohol, and became out of control. He said she had since apologised and was mortified by her actions.
The probation report described Ms Gahan as a low risk of reoffending, noting that she attended all scheduled appointments.
Judge David Kennedy remarked that the report stated Ms Gahan believed her drink had been spiked and that she had “identified herself as the real victim”.
The court also heard that Ms Gahan had recently begun working at a real estate agency, and that the behaviour was completely out of character.
Judge Kennedy imposed fines totalling €1,250, with the public order matter taken into consideration.