Gardaí thank community for support following conviction of brothers - Kilkenny Live

Gardaí have thanked the rural community of Ballygurteen in Kilkenny for their co-operation and support following the conviction of two brothers who received 12 year prison sentences, with the final two years suspended at Kilkenny Circuit Court.

On Christmas night 2022 gardaí received several calls regarding a stolen tractor, criminal damage and assaults on two men in the Ballygurteen area of Paulstown. These incidents had a number of victims, one of whom was severely beaten by the culprits.

Following the court Superintendent Aidan Brennan of Kilkenny Garda Station paid tribute to the local community there.

“I want to sincerely thank the investigation team, but especially the people of Ballygurteen. These convictions would not have been possible without their co-operations and support,” he said.

Detective Sergeant Matt Filan, Thomastown also thanked the victims for coming forward.

"To get both convictions in Kilkenny Circuit Court was a very positive outcome, not only for the victims in this case but indeed the wider community of Ballygurteen, Co Kilkenny.  

"What happened  on Christmas night 2022 was a frightening experience not only the victims but also the local community. 

"I think of residents of Ballygurteen at this time, especially the older and vulnerable persons in that community impacted by this incident.  This is never underestimated by An Garda Síochána.

"I want to thank the victims for coming forward and also the people of Ballygurteen who from the start supported this Garda investigation," he said.