Cork man told garda: ‘I hope you die over Christmas’

A 45-year-old man arrested for a public order offence before the holiday period replied to a member of An Garda Síochána when charged: “Fuck you, I hope you die over Christmas.”

Judge Catherine Ryan was dealing with the case at Cork District Court yesterday when she read out this reply after caution which was made by Michael Butler of Churchfield Terrace East, Churchfield, Cork.

He was charged with being so intoxicated that he was a danger to himself or others at Ballyvolane Rd, Cork, on December 19 and he made the reply, which was referred to by the judge.

When he was charged with a second count of causing damage to the holding cell at Mayfield garda station later on the same date, which cost €250 to clean up, the defendant replied: “I apologise.”

Diarmuid Kelleher, solicitor for the accused, applied for free legal aid to represent the accused stating that he is on a disability allowance. Judge Ryan granted that application.

Mr Kelleher also asked for a copy of the prosecution evidence in the case against Mr Butler to be sent to the defence.

On the application of Sgt Gearóid Davis, Judge Ryan adjourned the case until January 19 at Cork District Court.