Forgot to tell Gardai he had moved to Ardee

A 42 year-old unemployed man who was convicted for unlawful sexual intercourse “simply forgot to tell Gardai” that he moved to Ardee.

Owen Maughan with an address at Cuchullain House in the town was charged with failing to notify Gardai on September 13 last of changing address. He was living in Clare and Gardai were not aware of the defendant’s location for a couple of weeks, Garda Inspector Paul Kiernan told the local district court.

The defendant was convicted of the offence and fined €400. Judge Dunne remarked that it was not a credible excuse that he forgot to notify the gardai.

Defence solicitor Paul Eaton said that he had conveyed the importance to the defendant of engaging with the Gardai.

Judge Dunne said he was sure he was well aware from when the original order was made.

Mr Eaton replied that it was 11 years since the original offence was in court. He understood the defendant didn’t come to attention since then. He was living with his wife in rented accommodation.

A second summons against the defendant for failing to appear at the court previously was taken into account.