This article is from page 14 of the 2012-09-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
THE driver of a garda car had to take evasive action to avoid being hit by a camper van driven straight at it in an Ennis housing estate, a court has heard. The incident occurred at Aughanteeroe on the Gort Road, Ennis on August 30.
Thomas Ward (39), with an address at 32 Corrach Buí, Rahoon, Galway, pleaded guilty to a charge of engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour arising out of the incident. Inspector Michael Gallagher told the court that a camper van was driven straight at a garda car in Aughanteeroe on the day in question. He said the driver had to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Insp Gallagher explained that when the camper van came to a stop, four men, including Mr Ward, alighted from the rear of the van. The court heard that Mr Ward ran away from gardaí and attempted to climb a wall to escape. Insp Gallagher said that when asked to stop by a garda, Mr Ward remained difficult, calling her a “f****** spastic” and a “f****** prostitute”.
Gardaí used pepper spray to subdue Mr Ward. He later apologized to gardaí. Mr Ward denied insulting the garda in the manner outlinewd by the State. The court heard that Mr Ward has 18 previous convictions. Judge Patrick Durcan noted that this was an unusual public order offence in that there was no alcohol involved. However solicitor Tara Godfrey told the court that her client would assert that he was “very drunk” on the day. Insp Gallagher said there was no indication at the time that the accused was drunk. Judge Durcan said the accused had been part of a “general scarper” from the van when gardaí approached and imposed a twomonth prison sentence.
Recognances were fixed in the event of an appeal. Judge Durcan said, “I did consider the issue of community service but did deem it would be inappropriate.”
After sentence was passed, Mr Ward was granted a request to speak in court. Mr Ward apologised for his actions, adding this his imprisonment would be bad for his family.
He said, “I’d prefer not to go to jail, your honour.” Mr Ward admitted being in the van but denied knowing the driver.
He said he had not known anyone in the van, adding that he had been “invited in for a drink.”
Judge Durcan said the prison sentence remained in place.