Kildare man thought he was in court to pay fine, faces Protection Order charge instead
Photo for illustrative purposes only
“HE called the injured party a ‘tramp’ and a ‘hoor’, and put her in fear for her safety,” said Sergeant Mary Meade to a man who claimed he thought he was only in court to pay a fine – and not face a breach of protection order charge.
When the case was called at a closed session of Naas District Court, Sergeant Mary Meade laid out the evidence to Judge Desmond Zaidan.
“This is a first appearance for a breach of a protection order,” she said, contrary to Section 33 of the Domestic Violence Act.
“The defendant and the injured party cohabit, they used to be in a relationship, but are no longer in a relationship after four years,” said Sgt Meade.
“It is alleged, that on 8 June at (their given address) the defendant called the injured party a tramp and a hoor, and put her in fear for her safety. This will be contested,” she told the judge.
“I will give you a hearing date,” said the judge, amenably.
“I came here to pay a fine!” protested the defendant.
“It’s supposed to be €350, but I only have €200. I’m not working, I’m on disability,” he tried.
The judge issued a date of 26 November for a full hearing.
“Why do I have to come back?” the man continued protesting.
“You were charged, Section 33, direction was received (from the DPP) and I’ve heard the allegations,” said the judge simply.
“If your ex-partner doesn’t appear, I will strike it out,” he offered fairly.
“Oh, she’s not well. She’s getting injections for bi-polar,” he began.
“She was calling me all the names under the sun in front of all the neighbours, that’s not right,” he said, but to no avail, as the judge had moved on.
