This article is from page 14 of the 2008-04-08 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
ALLEGATIONS that a man was missing part of his ear as a result of a row in Ennistymon on New Year’s Eve have been heard in court.
According to gardai, the man’s ear was bitten during an alleged assault. Martin Mongans (19), of The Prom- enade, Lahinch, was before Ennisty- mon District Court last Wednesday charged with assaulting a man, caus-
ing him harm. Mr Mongans is also accused of the lesser charge of assaulting two men. He is further charged with being intoxicated in public and with engag- ing in threatening, abusive or insult-
ing behaviour. It is alleged that the incident occurred at Main Street, En- nistymon, on December 31, 2007.
Garda Ian Kelly told the court that he arrested the accused prior to the court sitting, last Wednesday morn- ing. He said he did not make any re- ply, in response to the charges.
Judge Joseph Mangan asked how serious was the allegation of assault. Garda Kelly said the assault causing harm charge related to an alleged incident in which a man sustained a Serious ear injury.
‘‘He’s missing part of his ear,” said the garda.
“There was a row involving a number of individuals. It’s alleged Martin Mongans assaulted the in- jured party and bit his ear and also assaulted two others… minor as- saults, punches,’ said the garda.
Defending solicitor Tara Godfrey applied for free legal aid for her cli- ent, who is unemployed. She pointed out that the accused had been inter- viewed “some time ago in relation to denne
Supt Gabriel O’Gara said he would not be objecting to bail, on condition that the accused have no contact with the injured parties.
Judge Joseph Mangan declined ju- risdiction and adjourned the case for two months, for preparation of the Book of Evidence, for hearing in the circuit court.
Garda Kelly said there will be 21 statements, some of which are very elena laren
“We are awaiting medical reports also. It will be a period of time be- fore we get all this, given the number of witnesses,” said the garda.