Man told gardaí he bit woman on hand and leg on Donegal beach ‘in self-defence’

A man before the court for a number of charges including biting a woman on the hand and leg claims he did so in self-defence.

The court heard that the assault of the woman took place on Bundoran beach, and arose from an altercation regarding a dog and a ball.

Matthew Gallagher, 26, of 10 West End, Bundoran was before Ballyshannon District Court on Friday, January 16. He admitted assaulting the woman and causing her harm. The offence took place on August 16, 2024 at the Beach, Bundoran. It is contrary to Section  3(1) and 3(2) of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997 (as amended by Section 20 of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023.

Inspector Dermot Treacy told the court the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had directed summary disposal, but the matter was in for a decision on jurisdiction. This means that the matter can be heard in the district rather than being sent to the circuit court, subject to the district court judge being satisfied that it does not require the higher sentencing powers of the circuit court.

Photos of the injuries were handed into court.

The inspector said: “The injured party was on Bundoran Beach with two of her friends. Mr Gallagher started to engage with them in a manner that wasn’t wanted. 

“There was a clash in relation to the dog that the injured party had. It was in relation to ball. 

“Mr Gallagher got into an altercation with the injured party. He bit her hand and also bit her leg

“He made admission but indicated that it was self defence

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham asked if there were any ongoing medical issues.

The inspector replied: “No, she returned to her home.”

Judge Cunningham accepted jurisdiction, thus allowing the case to proceed in the district court. 

Gallagher is also charged that on September 23, 2024 at 9 Bundoran West End Accommodation, he assaulted a male. The offence is contrary to Section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. On the same occasion, he caused criminal damage to a window blind, contrary Section 2(1) of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

And he is charged with being intoxicated to the extent of being a danger to himself or others at West End, Bundoran, on May 8, 2024. That offence is contrary to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008.

Judge Cunningham adjourned all matters to March 20. 

Legal aid was granted to solicitor Gerry McGovern.