Man turned away from medical treatment was abusive to Kilkenny gardaí
A MAN who said he was turned away from a medical facility after seeking help, and therefore began drinking alcohol, has appeared before the district court charged with public order offences.
Luke Kelly, 7 Marnell’s Meadow, Callan Road, Kilkenny, pleaded guilty to charges of being intoxicated in public and with using threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour at Marnell’s Meadow on May 19, 2026.
Sergeant Morgan O’Connor said that on that date, at 5.40pm, gardaí observed Mr Kelly. He was unsteady on his feet and smelled of alcohol. He became abusive to gardaí and unknown passersby.
Mr Kelly was arrested for his own safety.
Treatment
Solicitor Chris Hogan said his client had an addiction to alcohol and other substances. He spent more than two years in treatment and was doing well until issues arose in his personal life and he ‘relapsed.’
The solicitor said his client had sought medical help on this day, but when he didn’t get the help he needed, he started drinking.
Help
Answering an enquiry from the judge as to why Mr Kelly was not given help, Mr Hogan said the facility would not admit Mr Kelly because he had taken drugs.
Since this incident, his client is not taking any intoxicants, Mr Hogan said. He has linked up substance abuse services and mental health supports and is back living with his family.
Judge Geraldine Carthy convicted Mr Kelly on the charge of using threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour and imposed a Community Service Order of 120 hours in lieu of two months imprisonment. The second charge was taken into consideration.