'That must be a record' says judge at Cork court of man with 544 previous convictions

A judge commented that a man’s previous convictions totalling more than 500 may well be a record but his defence solicitor said it stemmed from a car crash 27 years ago when six members of his family were killed.

Richard O’Brien, 53, of 14 Ardshanavooley, Killarney, County Kerry, pleaded guilty to two more public order charges at Cork District Court.

He admitted being drunk and a danger and engaging in threatening behaviour during a recent incident in Cork city.

Sergeant Aisling Murphy said he had a total of 544 previous convictions. Of those, 342 were for being so intoxicated that he was a danger to himself or others and 56 were for engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to lead to a breach of the peace.

Judge Mary Dorgan said on hearing this, “Ah now, Mr Collins-Daly (defence solicitor), that must be a record.” 

Shane Collins-Daly solicitor said the defendant did tell him he had more than 500 convictions but he gave an explanation.

“He says his life was ruined by drink going back a long time. He lost six members of his family 27 years ago in a Road Traffic Accident,” Mr Collins-Daly said.

Sgt. Murphy outlined the background to the latest incident: “On June 29 outside Gallagher’s pub on MacCurtain Street, he was threatening members of the public and staff at the premise. When the gardaí arrived he was verbally abusive to them.” 

Judge Dorgan said, “Obviously, it is caused by trauma. It would be helpful if you (the accused) could get help for your drinking, while you are in custody. It does not help matters.” 

The judge imposed a prison term of two months on Richard O’Brien on the threatening charge.