Cork anti-immigrant activist given a month to decide plea in garda harassment case

The case against anti-immigration activist Ross Lahive charged with harassment of a garda was adjourned today for a month so that he could consider whether he is pleading guilty or not guilty.

Diarmuid Kelleher, solicitor, said that once the prosecution material in the case is considered by the defence a decision will be taken on how to plead. 

On the application of Sergeant Gearóid Davis, Judge John King adjourned the case until December 18.

Ross Lahive of Church Street, Shandon Street, Cork, faces a charge which states: “On dates between October 9, 2022, and February 6, 2025, he harassed (the garda) contrary to Section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.” 

Detective Sergeant  Christopher Cahill formally arrested the accused at 9.52 a.m. today at the Bridewell and brought him before Cork District Court on the charge of harassing the garda. After caution he made no reply.

Det Sgt Cahill previously alleged that Mr Lahive engaged in a campaign of harassment against a member of An Garda Síochána. This member was on duty at a public event in October, 2022 when he arrested Mr Lahive. 

His arrest was video-recorded and posted on Facebook.

“In February 2023 it is alleged that the victim in this was walking from Cork District Court having given evidence in a separate case. He was approached by the accused and co-accused and a third person. He was verbally abused by him. He (the garda) said he did not consent to being recorded.

“He was followed for a number of minutes and was afraid to get on the bus at the bus station in case his address would become known.

“It is alleged that the accused went on to post videos of himself talking about this injured party. The injured party was distressed. It had a negative effect on himself and his family.”