Abusive birthday boy is fined €500

By Eimear Cotter

A BIRTHDAY boy told gardai to "f**k off" after they were called to break up a heated row in a hotel involving some of his friends, a court heard.

Craig Goonery (23) tried to intervene when a group of his friends got into an argument, but the matter escalated and he ended up being arrested.

A court heard that the defendant was very embarrassed and ashamed of his behaviour, as the people were in the hotel to help celebrate his 21st birthday.

Judge David McHugh fined him €500.

Goonery, of Neilstown Park, Clondalkin, admitted before Blanchardstown District Court to threatening and abusive behaviour.

The offences, contrary to the public order act, took place at the Green Isle Hotel in Clondalkin on May 6, 2012.

Gda Paul Maxwell said gardai were called to the hotel shortly before 2am, and found staff dealing with an aggressive male.

Gda Maxwell said Goonery told officers to "f**k off" and he had to be restrained.

false

Goonery also admitted to possession of a false NCT certificate and false insurance certificate at Cherry Orchard Crescent, Ballyfermot, on January 28 last year.

In relation to that offence, Gda Linda Ryan said she stopped Goonery shortly before 1pm.

She said she looked at his insurance disc and NCT disc, both of which were missing details and features. Gda Ryan said Goonery admitted to her that the documents were false.

The court heard the defendant has seven previous convictions.

Defence solicitor Fiona Brennan said Goonery had been a named driver on his father's insurance policy, but he wanted to sort out insurance for himself and he made a foolish decision to use the false documents.

In relation to the breach of the peace charge, Ms Brennan said Goonery was very embarrassed and ashamed about his behaviour as it was "his night" to celebrate.

She said Goonery recently became a father and has not been in trouble since the incidents in 2012 and 2013.

hnews@herald.ie