A man who thought jumping on the back of a garda whilst drunk was a good way to rescue his brother was relieved of €250 in the District Court last Tuesday (October 14 ) for his actions.
Michael McGrath, a 33 year old lorry driver from Antrim, was before Judge David Anderson on account of his behaviour in the early hours of July 13 last on Church Street
The court heard how McGrath had come up behind a garda on patrol and jumped on his back, knocking the officer to the ground.
“He was drunk and very abusive,” said Inspector Paul Cuttle for the prosecution.
“My client completely accepts it is totally unacceptable to be jumping on guards,” said defending solicitor Grainne O’Neill.
“His memory is hazy at best.
“He recalls seeing a guard approaching his brother and decided to interfere in the garda’s business.
“He wishes to apologise for his behaviour and it is right to point out the seriousness of Section 19 [obstruction of a garda in the execution of his duties]”.
Judge David Anderson fined McGrath €250.
