A West Kerry mother and son charged with harassment have been sent forward to stand trial.
Sean Garvey and Joan Garvey of Kilvickadownig, Ventry, appeared before Judge Mark O’Connell at Tralee District Court recently.
45-year-old Sean Garvey faces five charges of harassment, contrary to the non-fatal offences against the person act 1997, as amended by Section 10 of the harassment, harmful communications and related offences act 2020.
It’s alleged that on dates between January 1st 2022 and June 5th 2024 he harassed five women at a primary school in West Kerry.
His mother, 70-year-old, Joan Garvey, faces one charge of harassment of a woman on the same dates and at the same location.
The accused appeared before Judge Mark O’Connell at Tralee District Court where they were served with the book of evidence.
Sergeant Chris Manton told the court that the DPP consents to sending Sean and Joan Garvey forward to trial.
However, Sgt Manton outlined, the director did not consent to the accused going forward on a signed plea.
Their solicitor Padraig O’Connell said it was unusual that there isn’t a provision for a plea, however, he indicated they will be proceeding on a plea of not guilty.
The Judge served an alibi notice - whereby if the defendants plan to provide alibi evidence at trial, 14 days notice must be given to the state.
Judge O’Connell sent both Sean Garvey and Joan Garvey forward to stand trial at the next sitting of Tralee Circuit Criminal Court.
They were granted bail subject to a number of conditions, while legal aid and one counsel was assigned.
