Man will now face trial on violent disorder charge

A man accused of being one of a number of people caught up in a feud related violent disorder incident on the streets of Mullingar is to stand trial.

Bradley McEntee (24) of 146 Dalton Park, Mullingar, Westmeath was formally charged with the section 15 charge under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 at last week’s sitting of Mullingar District Court.

Mr McEntee first came before the court in August resulting from an incident on August 2, 2024 at Austin Friar Street, Mullingar.

He was charged with assault causing harm and the possession of a knife five days later at Raithín, Mullingar.

Detective Garda Adrian O’Reilly gave evidence of having arrested and charged Mr McEntee at the commencement of court proceedings before Judge Bernadette Owens last Thursday.

He told the court that Mr McEntee made no reply after caution when the charge of violent disorder was put to him at 10.35am.

Det Garda O’Reilly said that charge meant that the initial section 3 assault charge against Mr McEntee could be withdrawn, and the knife possession charge could remain in place.

He said directions from the DPP were for Mr McEntee to be sent forward to Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court. It was also stated that the DPP had consented for Mr McEntee to go forward on a signed plea should that arise in due course.

Louis Kiernan, in defence, made an application for the disclosure of state evidence in connection to the case.

Sgt Orla Keenan said directions, while still awaited, were “very close” in terms of the knife possession charge.

Mr McEntee was ultimately remanded on bail to reappear at a sitting of Mullingar District Court on November 28 for the servicing of a book of evidence.