Lahive to contest harassment charge

Anti-immigration activist Ross Lahive will be contesting the case against him where he is charged with harassment of a garda.

The case was adjourned until yesterday at Cork District Court for the accused to decide if he was pleading guilty or not guilty. 

The DPP said it could be dealt with summarily at the district court on a plea of guilty, but that otherwise it would be a matter for trial by judge and jury.

Solicitor Diarmuid Kelleher said the accused was entering a not guilty plea.

On the application of Sergeant Gearóid Davis, Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case until February 12 to allow time for new directions from the DPP. A book of evidence will also have to be prepared.

Ross Lahive, aged 46, of Church Street, Shandon Street, 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.”

Det Sgt Christopher 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 case 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.”