Man in fear for his safety wanted to go into custody, solicitor tells Kildare court

A man was so in fear for his personal wellbeing that he wanted to go into garda custody.

That's according to solicitor Tim Kennelly, who made the comments in relation to his client, Patrick Behan, with an address listed as 1 Riverview Apartments in Naas, but who is currently remanded in custody on other matters.

Naas District Court was told on Thursday, September 8 last that the 41-year-old had committed a criminal damage offence back in June of this year.

Specifically, it was heard that on July 4 last, he threw a rock at a parked car at Naas Garda Station, causing around €1,100 worth of damage to the car.

Mr Behan, who appeared before Judge Desmond Zaidan via video-link, pleaded guilty to the offence.

Mr Kennelly explained to the judge that his client had wanted to go back into custody as he was homeless at the time, and was in fear of his safety, as he owed money to someone.

He also said that his client has an addiction to heroin.

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Mr Kennelly further said that he did not target the car in question specifically; instead, he picked it randomly.

Mr Behan also apologised for committing the offence.

Commenting on the case, Judge Zaidan said: "It is a serious matter, but it also exposes some major failings in Ireland.

"I have sympathy for the garda whose car was damaged, and some sympathy for Mr Behan, but I don't have any sympathy for the State: over the course of my legal career, for 30 years, it's the same old story (when it comes to helping those addicted to drugs)."

He added: "Name me one rehab centre in Ireland that is State-owned."

When the judge further remarked that Mr Behan seemed 'like a balanced young man,' when he was sober. Mr Kennelly agreed with him, adding: "Anytime he comes into my office, he's always very respectful courteous to me and my staff."

After consideration, Judge Zaidan imposed an 11-month sentence on Mr Behan, which will run into his present custodial sentence.

Mr Behan thanked both Mr Kennelly and the judge after the verdict was delivered.