Suspended sentence for drunken man who shouted abuse at CUH security staff 

A drunken man who shouted abuse at security staff outside Cork University Hospital where members of the public were present has been given a two-month suspended jail term. 

41-year-old David Kenny of Coppinger’s Acre, Bantry, Park Road, pleaded guilty to being threatening and abusive and being drunk and a danger during the incident on August 9 at Cork University Hospital.

Sergeant Pat Lyons said at Cork District Court: “Gardaí responded to a call outside CUH where a man was causing a disturbance.

“Gardaí observed David Kenny shouting at hospital security staff and stumbling around the road where members of the public were present.

“He refused to engage with gardaí. Garda Emmet Long got a strong smell of intoxicating liquor from Mr Kenny. Gardaí were of the opinion that he was a danger to himself and others.

“He continued to be aggressive towards members of the public and he fell on the ground at one stage.” 

Similarly, there was another incident on July 5 at Mahon Point shopping centre, where David Kenny was found to be extremely aggressive and intoxicated.

Defence solicitor, Shane Collins-Daly, said of the accused: “He is a man who would have significant challenges, cognitively, socially and would have health difficulties and an alcohol problem.” 

Mr Collins-Daly said family members were quite concerned about Mr Kenny who made matters more challenging for himself by mixing alcohol with his prescribed medication.

As well as suspending the sentence, Judge Kelleher said the accused would have to comply with directions of the probation service.