Kildare man's house targeted again by thugs

A NEWBRIDGE resident has been targeted by anti-social behaviour (ASB) on his home escalate since he first went public with it three weeks ago.

His fears have been magnified over recent months since his elderly, invalid sister [now attending NGH] came home from England.

However, the man feels he is better protected since he went public with his fears to the Kildare Nationalist.

“I have two [Garda] PULSE numbers, a council official on observation, a visible garda presence which is better than the last time we talked, so talking to you alone gives me hope,” said the 63-year-old man.

Last month (4 October), he had to barricade his letterbox after a banger thrown in it nearly set fire the hall carpet and stairs.

This then escalated the week before last (18 October) when his house “was attacked with missiles” half an hour after midnight, “and when I confronted these (individuals) fireworks and bangers were fired at me.

“About eight youths set fire to all the rubbish gathered on the main park, and the fire brigade had to be called twice, escorted by between eight and 10 gardaí.

“My partner was with me at the time, and she was hysterical with fear … she says she’ll never come here again because she’s afraid her car would be targeted,” he said.

“Fair play, the gardaí stood outside for three hours and chased these (individuals) into homes that protect them.

“I was advised by the gardaí to leave my home for the night for safety reasons.

“I have been in fear for three years now, I can’t sleep there at night and it’s not safe for me or my sister”.

The man at the end of all tethers contacted the Kildare Nationalist again on Thursday (29 October) to report: “there was another attack on my home again last night when I was not there”.

“I have to stay away from my home for the night, and run the gauntlet in daylight when I return.” His door has also been egged.

The man was cautiously optimistic to see a council officer in the area observing some of the anti-social behaviour in the area.

However, he said: “I’ve no idea what the future holds for myself or my sister.

“We’re between a rock and a hard place for doing the right thing.

“I’ve been off the drink for over 11 years now, and have a lovely life, except for this horrible piece of shit during this turmoil”.

The man said he would be willing to be rehoused in Newbridge or in other areas “anywhere safe in Kildare for me and my sister”.

“We can’t be choosy with the danger we’re in,” he said.