Mayo man facing assault charges after row with neighbour

A Claremorris man has been returned for hearing after Castlebar District Court accepted jurisdiction in a case involving alleged assault causing harm and criminal damage during a dispute between neighbours.

Michael Roache, Levallyroe, Irishtown, Claremorris, appeared before Judge Sandra Murphy charged with assault causing harm to neighbour John Cosgrove, as well as criminal damage to a Samsung Galaxy phone and an outdoor security camera.

Garda Conor McShane outlined the alleged events.

The court heard that on December 11, 2024, a heated argument between the neighbours was captured on Mr. Cosgrove’s security camera.

Garda McShane said Roache confronted Mr. Cosgrove and demanded access to the camera system. When Mr. Cosgrove refused, it is alleged Roache pushed him against a gate and prevented him from leaving.

The court heard Roache then allegedly grabbed Mr. Cosgrove by the clothing around his neck and slammed him against a wall. Mr. Cosgrove reported being struck in the ribs and hand during the altercation, and Garda McShane said damage to his phone, valued at €250, occurred during the struggle.

Garda McShane added that Mr. Cosgrove kicked out in retaliation and alleged he was then punched in the face.

Roache is also alleged to have climbed a ladder and destroyed an outdoor security camera, causing approximately €70 in damage.

Following the incident, Mr. Cosgrove sought medical attention, undergoing a CT scan, blood and urine tests. He sustained superficial injuries, including facial bruising and a swollen finger. Photographs of the injuries were presented to the court.

Judge Murphy accepted jurisdiction over the Section 3 assault charge and the criminal damage matters, adjourning the case to February 4 to allow disclosure to be furnished to defence solicitor Mr. Dermot Morahan.

*Published under the Courts Reporting Scheme.