Sent forward for trial to circuit court

A 28 year old man accused of violent disorder has been sent forward for trial to the next sitting of Roscommon Circuit Court.

At Castlerea District Court, a book of evidence was served on Gavin Cooper, with an address at 4 Marion Court, Ballaghaderreen. He is facing three charges, alleging that he committed violent disorder on June 30th, 2021 at Coilte Bo, Loughglynn, and that he allegedly produced a sledge hammer and a long pole capable of inflicting serious injury, in the course of a dispute.

Judge James Faughnan was told that the book was served on the accused and his barrister, Neasa O’Callaghan, before the court. He told the accused that if he intended to rely on the evidence of an alibi, notice must be given to the prosecution within 14 days of being served with the book of evidence.

Legal aid was extended to cover one junior counsel, and the accused was remanded to the next sitting of the circuit court in June.

Man warned to engage with Probation Service

A 54-year-old man was warned at Roscommon District Court he faced jail if he does not engage with the Probation Service.

Martin Judge, Apartment 13, Castleview, Castle Street, Roscommon Town, appeared before Judge James Faughnan charged with intoxication in a public place and engaging in threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour in 2025.

The judge noted that a probation report on the accused was “not good” and that he had a high risk of reoffending.

“I am concerned that he is wasting the court’s and the Probation Service’s time,” the judge said.

Solicitor Sean Mahon said that the re-offending risk related to the accused’s continued use of alcohol. He also highlighted that his client had been without accommodation for a time.

Giving evidence, Mr Judge was asked by his solicitor what assurances could he give the court. Mr Judge replied he would engage 100 per cent with the Probation Service.

The judge adjourned the case until October with liberty to re-enter. He warned the accused to engage fully “and I mean fully”. He said if there was any issue, the accused would go straight into custody.

Prison sentence for theft offence

A 62-year-old woman received a five month prison sentence at a recent sitting of Castlerea District Court.

Ann Ward, with an address at 15 Armada Cottages, Bundoran, County Donegal, pleaded guilty to the theft of hot food to the value of €19 before Judge James Faughnan after she elected that the matter be dealt with in the district court. The incident happened at the Corrib Oil Filling Station, St Patrick’s Street, Castlerea on February 18th, 2025.

The accused had compensation for the theft, €29.50 in court, her solicitor Alan Gannon said. He added that his client had health issues and required a hip replacement.

Sergeant Mark Mahon said the accused had 73 previous convictions, mainly for theft.

Judge Faughnan said that based on the accused’s previous convictions, a custodial sentence would be handed down.

He imposed a five month sentence and fix recognisance in the event of an appeal.