Cork man accused of carrying a knife told judge he was finding her in contempt of court

When accused was granted bail on condition he stay out of the city centre, he said the court was 'an illegal court' and he was claiming 'political activist status'

Charges against accused were allegedly committed on Wednesday on Oliver Plunkett Street and at the Bridewell Garda Station. Picture: Denis Minihane

A 54-year-old man accused of carrying a knife and being threatening and refusing to give gardaí his name and address shouted in court on Wednesday, and at one stage told the judge he was finding her in contempt of court.

Garda Kenneth Lawton testified he arrested Niall O’Brien for those three charges allegedly committed on Wednesday on Oliver Plunkett Street and at the Bridewell Garda Station.

The defendant shouted in Cork District Court these were lies and that he had never been charged and that his name was Cornelius O’Brien and not Niall O’Brien.

“You are not prosecuting me,” the defendant said.

Judge Treasa Kelly said: “You would be well advised to instruct a solicitor.” 

He replied: “I am representing myself.” 

Sergeant Gearóid Davis said there was no objection to bail on the three charges. Judge Kelly said she would remand him on bail on condition he would stay out of the city centre.

The defendant shouted: “On a public order charge — that is bullshit.” 

Judge Kelly told him not to use such language in court and he then said: “Being barred from the city centre is not correct. I live at Cove Street… He never gave me a charge sheet so I should not be in court. 

"I am holding you in contempt of court. This is an illegal court. I am claiming not political prisoner status but political activist status. This is an illegal court, an illegal operation.” 

Judge Kelly remanded him in custody with consent to bail until April 30 because he said he was refusing to sign his bail bond. He then said: “I have changed my mind,” and added he would sign the bond to be released, repeating that he was Cornelius and not Niall.

The alleged circumstances that saw him being arrested at lunchtime in Cork City were not outlined in court.