Man hit brother with cue after their father's funeral

Vincent Butler (58) had fallen out with his brother and had not seen him for 15 years before the funeral.

Judge David McHugh applied the Probation Act, saying he was taking the family circumstances into account.

The defendant, of Sheepmore Garden, Clonsilla, admitted before Blanchardstown District Court to threatening and abusive behaviour, assaulting Gda Paul Doona and producing a pool cue capable of inflicting serious injury at The Cardiff Inn, Cardiffsbridge Road, Finglas, last January 22.

Sgt Mary Doherty said Butler hit his brother with a pool cue during a fight, breaking it over his head.

She said that the victim had not suffered any injuries and did not make a complaint to gardai.

The court heard there was a scuffle when gardai tried to arrest Butler and Gda Doona was assaulted.

Defence solicitor Valerie Buckley said Butler, an unemployed lorry driver, was very drunk at the time.

She said he is on medication due to severe back pain and he suffered a heart attack a few years ago.

Ms Buckley said Butler was very embarrassed about the incident and had cooperated fully with gardai.

Applying the Probation Act, Judge McHugh said there is an old saying that sickness unites and funerals divide.