Motorist reversed into vehicle following ‘altercation of sorts’ in Limerick village

A GLIN man was before Newcastle West Court accused of reversing his car into another vehicle.

Joe O’Connor, aged 29, of Turraree, Glin pleaded guilty to criminal damage at Knockdown, Athea on January 26, 2022.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said there was “an altercation of sorts” between the defendant and two other males in the Knockdown area.

“He got into his car and reversed it into the side of another car causing substantial damage. A complaint was made to gardai. Mr (Joe) O’Connor was arrested and interviewed by gardai,” said Insp Thompson, who added that the cost of repairing the damage was €3,035.51.

Enda O’Connor, solicitor for Joe O’Connor, said his client was "minded" to pay compensation.

“He is in employment and lives with his partner. On the night in question there were differing views. My client would say it was an accident. He accepts damage was caused. He is doing his best to get on with his life,” said Mr Enda O’Connor.

Judge Carol Anne Coolican commented that the damage caused was considerable. She asked the Probation Service for a pre-sanctioned report on Joe O’Connor before adjourning the matter until May.