Man challenged garda to fight after trying to punch car

Paramedics dealing with a woman involved in self-harm at Coburg St, Cork City, had to contend with a man shouting at them, a court has heard.

Gardaí were called to assist the ambulance crew but the man then turned his anger on them.

Garda Grace Quirke testified at Cork District Court that William O’Brien, of 23 Dunmore Gardens, Knocknaheeny, Cork, was shouting at the paramedics to “get the fuck away” from the woman, who harmed herself on the street.

Garda Quirke said O’Brien, aged 24, then tried to get into a nearby pub, where he was refused entry at 10pm on Dec 10.

“He shouted at the guards that he would fight us,” said Garda Quirke, adding that she directed him to leave.

“He ran to the official patrol car and punched out at the car. He ripped his shirt open and asked me to fight him.

“He was standing in a boxing-like pose. He ran towards me. I had no option but to deploy my incapacitant spray. I then conveyed him to Mayfield Garda Station.”

O’Brien failed to appear in Cork District Court for the case against him.

Judge Con O’Leary imposed a three-month jail sentence on him on the threatening charge and fined him €100 for being drunk and a source of danger.

Garda Inspector Mary King said O’Brien had 30 previous convictions.