Offaly man ordered to pay more compensation to victim or go to prison

Judge Andrew Cody told a defendant he wanted to hear real expressions of regret from him, not from his mammy who doesn't want him to go to jail.

Before last week's district court was Patrick Walsh (35) of College View, Tullamore.

Mr Walsh was charged with assaulting a man causing him harm, on High Street, Tullamore on August 19, 2023.

Judge Andrew Cody noted that in his victim impact statement the injured party said he suffered from restless nights, and couldn't leave home since the assault and was traumatised.

Mr Walsh had 10 previous convictions including driving without tax or insurance. Drink driving and driving unaccompanied while a learner.

Solicitor Patrick Martin said the defendant was 35 and had returned to work. He does accept responsibility and had brought €1,000 with him to court. He earns €650 as a painter.

Judge Cody asked how long he had been working as a painter. Mr Martin on behalf of his client said 15 years.

Judge Cody noted that when Mr Walsh had applied for legal aid he had said he wasn't working.

The judge ordered the €1,000 to be handed over to the injured party but told Mr Walsh he would have to come up with a further €4,000 in the next six months if he wants to avoid prison.

He adjourned the case to July 23 next and told the defendant that if he doesn't have €4,000 with him that day he will impose a 12 month prison sentence. If he does have the money the sentence will be suspended.