Violent disorder charge for man with ‘extensive previous’ from incident in Ballybofey

A man has pleaded guilty to violent disorder in a Ballybofey pub.

Stephen Crerand, who Letterkenny Circuit Court heard has “extensive previous convictions” admitted his part in the incident on May 7, 2017.

The 41-year-old Crerand, with an address at Ard O’Donnell, Letterkenny, was charged with violent disorder, contrary to section 15 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, relating to an incident at Cheers Bar, Main Street, Ballybofey.

He was charged that, being one of there or more persons present together, used or threatened to use unlawful violence.

Crerand spoke only to plead guilty to the charge.

Mr Peter Nolan BL, barrister for Crerand, instructed by solicitor Mr Donough Cleary, said his client has “extensive previous convictions” but that his client has come to Garda attention once since 2017.

“That suggests a change of demeanour and behaviour, notwithstanding the previous,” Mr Nolan said.

The barrister asked that legal aid be extended to cover a medical report on Crerand.

Judge John Aylmer granted the request and asked that a full probation report, to include an assessment for community service, be prepared.

The case was adjourned to the next term and Crerand was remanded on continuing bail.