Man allegedly stabbed in head with screwdriver in the Midlands

A judge described the wounds suffered by a man who was allegedly stabbed in the head as ‘quite shocking’. 

John Nevin, 22, with an address at 21 Grove Park, Mountmellick is accused of assault causing harm at Irishtown, Mountmellick on July 14 last.

He is further charged with assault causing harm at Portlaoise Leisure Centre on June 17 last and with engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour at Laois Shopping Centre on October 26 last year.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said he didn’t yet have directions from the DPP in relation to the alleged assaults.  

He explained it is alleged he punched a man on the right ear on June 17, 2023. 

“Injured party suffered a laceration. He believes there was a blade in the hand of the suspect,” said Sgt Kirby.   

Outlining the alleged assault on July 14, Sgt Kirby said the “injured party was stabbed five times with a screwdriver.”  He said gardai “observed puncture wounds” on the man’s head and elsewhere on his body.  He said the victim had made a statement to gardai following the incident. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher explained that the statement had been withdrawn. 

“The alleged stabbing to the head. I understand the alleged injured party has since made a statement of withdrawal,” he said. 

“I won’t show you these Mr Meagher but they are quite shocking,” Judge Cody said in relation to the images of the injuries. 

Judge Cody said he would be refusing jurisdiction in relation to both of the assault allegations. 

“You can ask the DPP to make up his mind,” he said. 

“They have to go back for a book of evidence or directions from the DPP,” he added. 

Mr Meagher requested CCTV footage in relation to the public order incident in the shopping centre. 

“It is alleged to have happened in a disabled bathroom. I doubt there would be CCTV there,” said Sgt Kirby. 

Judge Andrew Cody granted legal aid and adjourned the charge of threatening and abusive behaviour to Portlaoise District Court on November 2.