A Kerry man appeared at the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin yesterday in connection with an alleged serious incident in Ballyspillane, Killarney.
Thirty-three-year-old Johnathan O’Brien, of 2 Hazelwood Drive, Ballyspillane, Killarney, was charged with assault causing harm, criminal damage, and possession of an offensive weapon in a manner likely to intimidate or cause serious injury.
Judge Catherine Ghent heard evidence of his arrest, charge, and caution in Dublin, as no judge was available in Munster due to the statutory Easter vacation.
Mr O’Brien was represented by barrister Caroline O’Connell, instructed by Padraig J. O’Connell Solicitors.
Judge Ghent was told that Gardaí entered a home in Ballyspillane early on Wednesday morning (16/04/2025), where they found two men in the sitting room.
Johnathan O’Brien was reportedly standing over the resident, with blood on his hands.
The alleged victim claimed he had been threatened with a gun held under his chin.
He had sustained multiple injuries, including a large horizontal cut to his left cheek and two broken legs.
Gardaí stated they seized a knife, an imitation handgun, and a wooden bat during the investigation.
Mr O’Brien was arrested at the scene.
He was charged with producing a scalpel blade in a manner likely to unlawfully intimidate or cause serious harm, as well as assault causing harm.
Officers had attended the same property earlier on Tuesday night (15/04/2025), after reports that windows in the house had been smashed.
On their return, they observed a freshly damaged glass panel in the front door.
The criminal damage charges relate to alleged damage to the sliding glass front door and a television, either intentionally or through reckless behaviour.
Mr O’Brien was granted legal aid, and the judge directed that he receive all necessary medical attention.
No bail application was made, but the defence reserved the right to apply in due course.
The state intends to oppose bail and anticipates further charges.
Mr O’Brien was remanded in custody to appear via video link at Tralee District Court next Wednesday (23rd April).
