Homeless man shouted at passers-by on Cork street, calling them 'f***ing foreigners', court told

Judge said there was 'a hint of xenophobia' about the behaviour of the defendant and put him on a 12-month probation bond

Defendant had 42 previous convictions for drunkenness and four for engaging in threatening behaviour, court heard. Picture: Larry Cummins

A homeless man shouted at people passing on North Main Street in Cork, and called them “f***ing foreigners”.

Judge Philip O’Leary said at Cork District Court there was “a hint of xenophobia” about the behaviour of 36-year-old William Dollard, of no fixed address.

The defendant pleaded guilty to being threatening and abusive and being drunk and a danger to himself or others on December 8, 2024.

Sergeant John Dineen said the accused man was arrested after 11pm on December 8, 2024, when there was a report of a man causing a disturbance on the street.

Sgt Dineen said the accused was shouting at people on the street, saying: “F*** off you pr***s, f***ing foreigners.” 

Sgt Dineen said the defendant had 42 previous convictions for drunkenness and four for engaging in threatening behaviour.

Solicitor Eddie Burke said the defendant was in difficult circumstances and found himself isolated.

When Judge O’Leary referred to xenophobia, Mr Burke said on Mr Dollard’s behalf: “I don’t think he thinks like that but I do accept the court seeing that in it.” 

Mr Burke said there had been difficulties with the accused engaging with services.

Judge O’Leary said: “I try to send people to services where I can. He is toying with a custodial sentence on these matters.” 

Mr Burke said after a brief consultation with the defendant: “He will take the help.” 

Judge O’Leary put William Dollard on a 12-month probation bond, saying: “He needs to find a new track for himself.”