Cork man accused of assault causing harm to ISPCA inspector queries need for forensics

A 54-year-old man accused of assault causing harm to an ISPCA animal welfare inspector during an incident near his home last August could not understand why the case was being adjourned until June for forensic evidence.

Solicitor Eddie Burke said he was instructed by Hugh O’Brien of Ballyanly, Inniscarra, Co Cork, to object to the application to adjourn the case.

The defendant is charged with assaulting ISPCA animal welfare inspector Caroline Faherty at Ballyanly on August 19, contrary to the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

Mr Burke also applied to have the case adjourned on a peremptory basis against the State.

Judge Mary Dorgan refused that application.

“He is charged with Section 3 assault [assault causing harm],” Mr Burke said.

“We cannot understand what forensics are required.”

Sergeant John Dineen said in relation to the adjournment to June 16 that the accused was on bail in any event.

Mr Burke said that while Mr O’Brien is on bail, he had stringent conditions that would remain in place with which he must comply.

Judge Dorgan said: “That is the way the system works.”

Mr O’Brien spoke up to say: “For some people, not for all people.”

Mr O’Brien also complained about media coverage and referred to “media scum” in the course of his remarks.

Bail conditions require him to have no contact, directly or indirectly, with the alleged injured party or witnesses.