Community service for Offaly man who assaulted garda

A TOTAL of 240 hours community service in lieu of 10 months in prison was handed down to a man who assaulted a garda.

In his evidence to Tullamore District Court last week, Det Sgt Jennings said that on January 20, 2021 gardai called to the home of Roy Dunican (28), Mooney Terrace, Kilcormac to arrest and charge him on directions from the DPP.

Mr Mooney became aggressive, picked up an umbrella and hit the door with it. A struggle ensued between Mr Dunican and Det Garda Fergus Hogan and Garda Hogan landed on the pavement hitting his left shoulder. Mr Dunican had to be pepper sprayed.

Mr Dunican had previous convictions for assault and road traffic offences. He had previously been handed down a four month suspended sentence.

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Defending solicitor Donal Farrelly said gardai had no warrant on the night of the arrest. However, Det Garda Hogan said the gardai had made three attempts to get him to come to the garda station. He said they were entitled to go to his home.

Mr Farrely said when gardai called Mr Dunican had been in bed with his partner and they pulled the blankets off him. He said the defendant was 27 with a partner and one child. He had reacted badly on the date in question and is struggling with mental health issues.

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Det Sgt Hogan said his shoulder was ‘’ok ‘’ after around six weeks and there were no lasting effects.

Judge Catherine Staines commented that the injuries to his shoulder seemed more serious than he is saying.

She noted that Mr Dunican had pleaded guilty and said she would allow for the preparation of a report to see if he is suitable for community service.

She put the case back to April 13 and said she will impose 240 hours in lieu of 10 months in prison.