Men and woman admit violent disorder with slash hooks in Offaly

CCTV evidence available of incident in Birr last year, Tullamore District Court is told

Published 24th Sep 2026, 14:00 BST Appeared at Tullamore District Court in relation to Birr offences | Tribune Pictures CCTV evidence available of incident in Birr last year, Tullamore District Court is told TWO men and a woman have admitted charges of violent disorder in Birr involving slash hooks.

Patrick O'Brien (45) and Michelle O'Brien (41), both of 41 Kearney Drive, Tullamore, appeared before Tullamore District along with Gerald Maughan (25), 17 The Heritage, Birr.

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Patrick O'Brien and Michelle O'Brien pleaded guilty to violent disorder at The Heritage, Main Street, Birr on August 23 last year and with producing slash hooks. Ms O'Brien was also charged with producing a floor brush as a weapon.

Gerald Maughan similarly admitted violent disorder and producing a slash hook, along with another charge of damaging a window and door at 11 The Heritage.

New book on life of Brian Cowen to be launched in Tullamore this Friday Aisling Maloney, solicitor, appeared and entered the pleas of guilty and suggested the preparation of probation reports.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns said there was CCTV evidence in the case and told Judge Andrew Cody he would inquire about victim impact statements.

Judge Cody remanded all three accused on continuing bail to appear in court again on November 11 next when the CCTV will be before the court, as will victim impact statements, if they are available, plus any evidence of previous convictions.

Patrick O'Brien also faces a charge of possessing a stolen Thompson two-berth caravan on May 17 last at Doolan's Filling Station, knowing it to be stolen.

Sergeant Kearns said the DPP had directed that matter could be disposed of summarily and said the value of the caravan was €500.

Ms Maloney said Mr O'Brien was pleading not guilty to that alleged offence and the judge scheduled a hearing for November 2 next.