Man, 53, avoids jail after pushing garda in the chest

A MEMBER of An Garda Síochána was pushed in the chest by a 53-year-old drunken man who has now been ordered to do 140 hours of community service to avoid spending two months in prison.

Judge Mary Dorgan ordered Stephen Landa to do the 140 hours instead of prison for threatening behaviour and obstruction.

He was fined €100 for being drunk and a danger.

Landa, of Oakfield Green, Glanmire, County Cork, pleaded guilty.

Sergeant John Kelleher said that the incident occurred after midnight on February 18 at Riverstown Road, Glanmire.

Sgt Kelleher said: “Garda Seán Hahessy was dealing with a routine traffic incident when he was approached by Stephen Landa, who was highly intoxicated.

“He began shouting, ‘What the f*** are you doing?’ and told the garda to f*** off.

“Garda Hahessy told him to get back on the footpath and not interfere with traffic flow.

“Mr Landa then pushed Garda Hahessy into the chest, using both hands. He had to be restrained by gardaí and handcuffed.”

Defence solicitor, Frank Buttimer, said: “The great majority of his offences go back some considerable period of time.

“When I got statements, I indicated to him what he had said and done and he expressed remorse.

“He went to Mayfield Garda Station. He left his name and details as the particular guard was not present.

“He wanted to express his apologies.”