Defendant makes noisy appearance at court hearing

A 38-year-old man carrying a Coca-Cola bottle who was charged with stealing an e-scooter in Cork city made a noisy appearance at Cork District Court.

Paul Russell, of Presentation Place, Gurranabraher, is charged that on August 30, at Parnell Place, he stole the electric scooter valued at €400.

Consulting with Mr Russell’s solicitor, Eddie Burke, in court, Judge Dorgan told Mr Russell to “sit down over there” as his consultation was becoming all too audible.

He replied to the judge: “No bother, girl.” After a moment he corrected the manner of his address: “Your honour, your honour.”

However, minutes later he was on the move in Courtroom 1 at Anglesea Street again and addressing the court presenter, Sergeant Pat Lyons, who was dealing with another case: “Well Pat, how are ya, boy?”

A garda who was on duty in the courtroom asked the accused to stay outside the door until his case was called.

Mr Russell replied: 

“Stay out for what? Don’t be f***ing bullying me at all.”

When his case was called, he walked quickly back into court, addressing the judge as his case was being discussed, saying: “I’ll throw my hand up on the bible.”

The only issue to be decided at that stage was whether he was entitled to free legal aid. 

He said: 

“I’m on jobseekers. You’re meant to get €220. I only get €200.”

The judge granted free legal aid and adjourned the case until February 21, 2024, for Mr Russell to decide if he is going to plead guilty or not guilty.

Judge Dorgan said to Mr Russel: “Thank you for coming to court.”

On a court visit where Mr Russell even offered some advice to a group of transition year schoolboys, the defendant said as he left the room — his voice ever-increasing in volume — “I’m gone, I’m gone.

“Pat hates me. I don’t want to be hog-walked out of court.”