US veterans deny criminal damage and trespass at Shannon Airport

Lawyers for octogenarian US Army veterans say they admit making an opening in a fence and entering airport but deny criminal damage

Ken Mayers (85) and Tarak Kauff (80), both with addresses in the US, are accused of damaging a perimeter fence before allegedly trespassing the lands of Shannon airport.  Picture: Collins Courts

Two American octogenarians have gone on trial accused of criminal damage and trespass at Shannon Airport on St Patrick's Day three years ago, leading to the closure of a runway.

Ken Mayers, aged 85, and Tarak Kauff, aged 80, both with addresses in the US, are accused of damaging a perimeter fence before allegedly trespassing the lands of the airport in Co Clare, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard today.