Ninth man charged with Ballinasloe violent disorder

Another Westmeath man has appeared in court in County Galway charged with violent disorder in Ballinasloe during this year’s International Horse Fair in the town in October.

David Joyce of 37 Árd Gráinne, Moate, appeared before Ballinasloe District Court on Thursday to face two charges.

He was the ninth man charged in relation to a violent incident at Saint Michael’s Square, Townparks, Ballinasloe, on Saturday October 10.

The 39-year-old was charged with violent disorder and with the production of an article – an iron bar – capable of inflicting serious harm.

Garda Michelle Hallinan of Ballinasloe Garda Station gave evidenced of arrest, charge, and caution.

She said the accused made no reply when the charges were put to him after caution.

Garda Sergeant Christy Browne made no objection to bail, on condition the defendant stayed out of Ballinasloe, apart from court appearances, did not contact witnesses, including on social media, and lodged a cash bond of €500.

Judge James Faughnan remanded Joyce on bail to appear before the December 3 sitting of Ballinasloe District Court.

At a special sitting of Loughrea District Court earlier this month, eight men were charged with violent disorder in Ballinasloe on October 10.

They were: Bernard Cawley (24) of 4 Canal Drive, Ballinasloe Galway; John Ward (29) of 18 Esker Park, Arcadia, Athlone, Co Westmeath; Patrick Ward (29) of Flat 6, Dunlo Centre, Dunlo Street, Ballinasloe, Co Galway; John Ward (20), Bernard Ward (25) and Gerry Ward (18) all of 42 Hymany Park, Ballinasloe, Co Galway; Bernard McDonagh of 17 Blackberry Lane, Athlone, Co Westmeath; and Joe Joyce (24) of Farnagh, Moate, Co Westmeath.

They were all released on bail with strict conditions to appear in court again in November and December.