Man admits serious attack outside pub

By Tom Tuite

A carpenter has pleaded guilty to a serious assault outside a pub in Mullingar that left another man fighting for his life.

Paul Earley, 59, Donearl House, Meedin, Tyrrellspass, County Westmeath, was served with a book of evidence in May after being charged over an incident at Patrick Street, Mullingar, County Westmeath on January 7, 2024.

He is accused of intentionally or recklessly causing “serious harm” to a male victim contrary to section four of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

Earley appeared before Judge Keenan Johnson at Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court for an arraignment hearing today.

Judge Johnson noted his guilty plea.

John Shortt, SC, defending, asked that the case be adjourned to a later date for sentencing to allow testimonials to be prepared for his client.

Bail terms imposed earlier stated he must sign on once a week at the local garda station, and he had to surrender his passport and provide a mobile number to gardaí.

Garda evidence has yet to be given.

The case resumes in March.