Man who threatened and threw brick at ex-partner's door in 'spasm of jealousy' avoids jail

Fiona Ferguson

A man who threw a brick at his ex-partner's door and threatened her "in a spasm of jealousy" has been warned not to harass or unnecessarily contact her again, or he will go to prison.

Kyle Walsh (30), of Killinarden Heights, Tallaght, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to burglary and making a threat at his former partner’s home, on December 30th, 2019.

The court heard that in Walsh had thrown a brick and entered through the front door of his formers partner’s home. He also made threats to kill her before leaving the house.

Judge Martin Nolan said it had been a frightening and serious offence.

The judge said, looking through the probation report, it seems the defendant had an attitudinal problem which he has to deal with. He noted the events took place three years ago and had not occurred again.

Walsh has no relevant previous convictions.

The judge said he hoped Walsh had realised what he did wrong, adding that it can never be repeated.

The judge said the mitigation was clear, noting Walsh’s plea, cooperation and good work history.

Judge Nolan said the question was should he imprison Walsh. He noted complicating factors in Walsh’s personal circumstances and that this behaviour had not reoccurred.

He added it would probably be unjust to imprison him, but said it had been a close-run thing.

Judge Nolan imposed two and half years’ imprisonment which he suspended in full, ordering him to have no unnecessary contact with the injured party.

He told Walsh that if there was any harassment, bad blood or aggression towards the woman, he would be brought back to court.

He also warned Walsh if there was any repetition he would go to jail.