A man has been sentenced to five months in prison for criminal damage at a property owned by a Kerry TD.
Aidan Cahill, who was previously a resident at 14 Murphy’s Terrace, Ballymullen, Tralee appeared before Judge David Waters at Tralee District Court.
The 37-year-old pleaded guilty to four charges including criminal damage, threats to damage property and public order.
Aidan Cahill appeared in person in relation to the incident at 14 Murphy’s Terrace, Ballymullen, Tralee, at 11.05 on March 6th this year.
Sergeant Chris Manton outlined that Mr Cahill was highly intoxicated and damaged the communal area of the property.
He outlined that timber from the walls and doors within the premises were damaged; and that paint was thrown on the stairs, balcony and landing floor area.
Judge David Waters also heard that the fire extinguisher had been discharged in the building; and the other residents were in extreme fear.
The court heard the premises is owned by Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae, while property manager Sheila Costello was at the address on the date to collect rent.
Sgt Manton outlined that Mr Cahill was very aggressive towards Ms Costello, shouted abuse at her and threatened to damage property within his room.
His solicitor Padraig O’Connell noted his client accepts he was out of order on the day; adding he was from a very good background, is a father and has a good work ethic.
However, Mr O'Connell stated Mr Cahill has a dreadful alcohol issue and had fallen off the wagon at this time.
Over €1,600 (€1,630) in damage was caused to the property, and the court heard the loss wasn’t recovered.
Judge Waters convicted Mr Cahill and sentenced him to five months in prison for both criminal damage charges, he ordered that these run concurrently given the guilty plea.
The judge took the associated matters into consideration in sentencing.
Judge Waters heard that the 37-year-old received a two-year suspended sentence on May 22nd last year for attempted robbery, suspended for three years.
He remanded Mr Cahill in custody to appear before Tralee District Court again on Friday in relation to this.
