A 35-year old Cork man has been sentenced to nine months in prison after punching a Kerry publican in the back of the head.
Noel Bowen of 12 Park View, Carrignavar, in County Cork was accused of punching Ray Madden at O’Connell’s Cove Bar in Caherdaniel on 24th August last year (2024).
Outlining the facts of the case, Inspector Fergal Long told Judge David Waters at Tralee District Court that the defendant was behaving loudly in the bar and annoying staff.
He was refused any more alcohol and asked to leave.
While being escorted out by Mr Madden, who owns the bar, he punched Mr Madden, who was 65-years-old at the time, in the back of the head, knocking him to the ground.
He was charged with assault causing harm contrary to Section 3(1) and 3(2) of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.
Defence solicitor, Padraig O’Connell, asked for the case to be adjourned so Mr Bowen could organise compensation.
Judge Waters refused saying Mr Bowen had had plenty time to pay compensation.
Mr O’Connell then recommended a suspended sentence as Mr Bowen had pleaded guilty and was employed.
Again, Judge Waters refused, describing the assault as “a cowardly punch to an older man”, and adding that the defendant had not shown meaningful remorse and describing him as a danger.
He was sentenced to nine months in prison.
