Cork court orders footballer to pay compensation over threatening phone calls

Accused is due to sign a contract this month for a semi-professional Welsh soccer club

The man is charged with sending a phone message that was obscene and menacing contrary to the Post Office Act as amended by the Communications Regulations (Amendment) Act.

A 23-year-old man who is due to sign a contract this month for a semi-professional Welsh soccer club was told that he will need to start saving up to compensate a man he threatened in Cork with offensive phone calls.

Issa Kargbo, who had been living at Blackrock Mews, Convent Road, Blackrock, Cork, had the case against him adjourned by Judge Mary Dorgan until March 27, 2023.

Garda Chris Campbell charged Mr Kargbo that between March 19-26, 2022, at Glasheen Cork, he sent a phone message that was obscene and menacing contrary to the Post Office Act as amended by the Communications Regulations (Amendment) Act.

Judge Dorgan noted from the man's victim impact statement that it had terrible consequences for his peace, safety, psychological, emotional, and financial wellbeing.

 He felt he had to leave his place of work and alter some basic routines. "I am least of all entitled to live my life without threats but most importantly without the burden of having to worry about my personal safety and wellbeing,” the victim stated.

Killian McCarthy solicitor said the accused had returned to Cork from Wales to face the case. He said the man is due to sign for a semi-professional football club. Following enquiries from Judge Dorgan it was estimated that his pay may be around €600 a week.

Judge Mary Dorgan said, “Professional football — or semi-professional — is really very good but meanwhile back at the ranch there is the victim impact. He needs to pay compensation.” 

The judge adjourned sentencing until March 27 for him to raise some compensation.