Longford defendant’s trial adjourned due to ‘real risk of unfair trial in circuit court’

A Longford man facing a possible Circuit Court trial has had two District Court offences postponed until November 26.

Judge Owens granted his attorney’s request that negative publicity generated by the district court cases could prejudice a potential trial in circuit court.

The defendant is scheduled to appear in circuit court on July 9.

Sean Stakelum, of 2A Park Road, Longford, faces two charges in the District Court.

On 15 March 2023, he was found intoxicated in a public place. On the same day, Mr Stakelum was convicted of uttering threats and abuse, with intent to cause a disturbance, under the Public Order Act, on Earl St. Longford.

Addressing the court, the defendant’s lawyer, Catherine McCormack, said that in her view “there was a real risk of an unfair trial for my client”.

She requested an adjournment.

“Potential jurors are exposed to risks associated with district court proceedings,” she said.

“I have noted Ms McCormack’s submissions. I believe there is a possibility of prejudice in the matter before the Circuit Court because of the publicity and, accordingly, I will remit the matters to November,” Justice Owens said.

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