A man who was released on bail last week following an assault incident in Longford town has once again been admitted to bail for an incident of a similar nature, which took place within the space of a week. Johnny Nevin (29), and his wife, Michelle Nevin (30), both of 12 Legion Terrace, Townspark, Longford, appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens at Athlone District Court, charged with a violent disorder incident, which took place outside a filling station in Longford town on Tuesday.
Garda Patrick Fallon said it is likely there will be further charges added to the indictment, following the completion of a file for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The violent disorder is alleged to have taken place on Tuesday, June 10, at approximately 9.30am, at Hanlon's Gala, where a large number of people were present in the store. 'It is alleged another male, who is also charged and before the courts for the offence, Christy McDonnell, entered the store and, a short time later, he was followed by Michelle Nevin and Johnny Nevin," said Garda Fallon, adding that it is alleged the husband and wife were "looking for Christy McDonnell". An altercation then began on the shop floor, in front of a large number of people, with a number of punches thrown from each of the parties before they were separated by members of the staff. "Christy McDonnell left the store, but returned where the physical altercation resumed at the front door of the shop. It is alleged Johnny Nevin assaulted Christy McDonnell and his wife, Bernadette by striking both individuals with his fist," said Garda Fallon. "Johnny Nevin was then pepper sprayed by Christy McDonnell inside the shop before Christy McDonnell left the store." Johnny Nevin was subsequently arrested and detained at Longford Garda Station where he made full admissions, the court heard.
The objection to bail was also on the basis that Gardaí have "great concerns" regarding the possibility that Mr Nevin would "directly or indirectly" interfere with witnesses. Solicitor for the defence, Diarmuid Quinn, upon cross-examination, pointed out that it was Christy McDonnell who discharged the pepper spray during the incident, but Garda Fallon pointed out that "all four individuals were involved". Mr Nevin had €1,000 in court that could be lodged, Mr Quinn said, adding that his client was willing to sign on, but Garda Fallon stressed that there were no conditions that would alleviate his concerns. Judge Owens admitted Mr Nevin to bail on strict conditions including an own bond of €1,000 to be lodged, that he reside at the address on the charge sheet, abide by a 10pm to 6am curfew, sign on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at Longford Garda Station, and stay out of Hanlon's Gala. He was remanded on bail to July 15 for DPP directions.
