Probation report ordered for man who caused disturbance at Letterkenny hospital

A Judge has ordered a probation and welfare report on a man who caused a disturbance at Letterkenny University Hospital after a court heard he suffered a psychotic episode.

Fergal Macken appeared at Letterkenny District Court.

The 27-year-old accused is charged with causing a disturbance at the hospital on January 23rd last.

Garda Sergeant Jim Collins told the court that Macken was roaring and shouting at staff and refused to leave.

He did leave but returned five minutes later and began to cause a nuisance again and Gardai were called.

The court was told that the accused, of Cortolvin Villas in Co Monaghan, had 70 previous convictions, many for similar public order offences.

However, solicitor Rory O'Brien said his client's behaviour was not straight forward and he revealed that he had suffered a psychotic episode having randomly got on a bus in Monaghan and ended up in Letterkenny.

He said: "He was raised by the state and has ongoing psychological issues. Alcohol has also been a factor in his life.

"I do not believe that alcohol was involved on this occasion but that he was suffering from a psychotic episode."

Directing on the case, Judge Emile Daly said Macken's early plea was welcome saying he took "ownership of his behaviour."

She remanded the accused man on bail and adjourned the matter for sentencing on April 20, 2026.