Cork man accused of striking garda patrol car twice with claw-hammer

A book of evidence was served today on a 36-year-old Bishopstown man accused of striking a garda patrol car twice with a claw-hammer.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis confirmed service of the book of evidence at Cork District Court on Leon O’Connor of Uam Var Avenue, Bishopstown, Cork.

On the sergeant’s application, Judge Mary Dorgan sent the case forward to the Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

Garda Shane Masters gave the original outline of allegations in the case that gardaí were subsequently dispatched to an unrelated incident.

“On the way they encountered Leon O’Connor who was on foot. Upon observing gardaí, he shouted at the patrol car, ‘I will f***ing get ye.’ 

“Gardaí parked up at Elton Lawn, Bishopstown, and Leon O’Connor approached the patrol car. He was wearing a snood and black gloves and had a clawhammer in his hand. He subsequently struck the patrol car twice with the clawhammer before making off.

“Leon O’Connor afterward made his way back to Leisureworld where he continued to have the hammer in his possession. 

“Gardaí apprehended him as he approached the complex front entrance and was subsequently arrested for the offence of criminal damage,” Garda Masters said.