Threw fizzy drink can out of vehicle in front of garda - Kilkenny Court
A man who threw a soft drink can out of a moving vehicle, in front of a garda, has been fined for littering.
The incident happened last Easter Sunday as the garda was taking his own family to Easter Mass.
Fined was John McDonagh, 11 Drumbane, Birr, Co Offaly.
Sergeant Morgan O’Connor gave evidence in court that on April 17 last he was driving past the petrol station at Ladyswell, Thomastown, when he slowed to allow a vehicle exit.
He observed a passenger in the vehicle throw a can of 7Up out an open window.
Sgt O’Connor stopped the vehicle and told Mr McDonagh to pick up the can and go back and put it in a nearby bin.
Tirade of bad language
Mr McDonagh was ‘highly abusive’ towards him the sergeant said and he was subjected to a ‘tirade’ of bad language.
The sergeant took the man’s name and then proceeded on his way, with his family.
Mr McDonagh’s vehicle followed Sgt O’Connor who then drove into the grounds of Thomastown Garda Station with his family to prevent being followed.
The other vehicle then drove on.
A fixed penalty for littering was issued but it was not paid by Mr McDonagh.
Judge Geraldine Carthy convicted Mr McDonagh and imposed a fine of €300.