Alleged racial abuse incident took place in Kildare town, gardaí claim

CONTESTED

A 21-year-old man has been accused of assault and of allegedly racially abusing a woman in Kildare town.

The allegations relate to one Charlie Kearney, with an address listed as 8 Connagh Road in Kildare town.

The defendant was absent from the court when his case was heard in front of Judge Desmond Zaidan at Naas District Court on Thursday, September 19 last.

Garda Sergeant David Hanrahan told the judge that on the evening of July 14, 2023, in Market Square, Kildare town, the accused allegedly got into an argument with a woman and her partner.

"He called her certain things that I don't want to read out loud," Sgt Hanrahan added.

When the judge requested him to elaborate on this, Sgt Hanrahan ultimately responded: "He allegedly called her a 'Black c**t' and told her to 'go back to her own country.'"

It was heard that following this (and on the following date, at Claregate Street in Kildare town), Mr Kearney allegedly assaulted the woman's partner, which allegedly resulted in the man receiving an injury to his shoulder.

Sgt Hanrahan further said that the woman is also before the District Court for other matters, and had appeared the previous week in court.

Recalling the court session, Judge Zaidan remarked: "I remember, I made no order on it. The State may come back to her."

Defending solicitor Tim Kennelly told the judge that his client 'does not agree with that version of events.'

As Mr Kearney was absent from the court, gardaí sought a bench warrant, which Judge Zaidan granted.

The judge also endorsed this warrant.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Samaritans Ireland (116123 or jo@samaritans.org) or you can visit pieta.ie (24/7 Free Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444).

You can also find resources to help you can contact the Irish Network Against Racism on 01 889 7110 or email info@inar.ie.