Couple in their 70s to face trial for assault, Kildare court hears
Photo for illustrative purposes only
A COUPLE both aged in their 70s have appeared in court charged with the assault of an unnamed man in Crettyard, Co Laois almost two years ago.
Sean Merriman (77) of Farnans, Ballickmoyler, Co Laois and Cynthia Fitzgerald (71), with an address at Shelbourne Park Mews, Ringsend, Dublin 4 appeared beside each other at Athy District Court.
The pair are each charged with a single charge of assault arising from an alleged incident on the Crettyard side of the Farnan’s townland on 4 December 2024, but no further details were disclosed to the court.
At first opportunity Mr Merriman told Judge Desmond Zaidan: “We’re in the High Court on the 10th”, although he did elaborate further.
Noting their ‘not guilty’ pleas, the judge sent both forward for hearing to the special sitting of Naas District Court on 30 September.
“What’s happening in Portlaoise?” Mr Merriman asked.
“I can’t speak for Portlaoise,” replied the judge.
Mr Merriman then informed the court that the pair were representing themselves, and that: “I want to make a statement on that”, but the judge halted him.
Sergeant Ruth Coleman then informed the court that the injured party would be on annual leave on 30 September, to which the judge replied: “It’s their lucky day”, and amended their hearing two days sooner, to 28 September.” “I suggest you get a lawyer,” was the final thing Judge Zaidan said on the matter.
