Hi °C | Lo °C A 24-year-old plasterer who allegedly told police he hoped they would all go “boom” like their murdered colleague Ronan Kerr, has appeared at Fermanagh Court.
Ciaran Kelly, of Leighan Road, Monea, admitted being disorderly but denied referring to Constable Kerr, who was killed when a dissident republican booby trap bomb exploded beneath his car in Omagh on April 2.
District Judge Liam McNally told Kelly most people would find the comments he allegedly made “absolutely repulsive” but added: “I can’t sentence you for your views.”
He pointed out that disorderly behaviour can carry a sentence of up to six months’ imprisonment but noted that Kelly was a first-time offender and had admitted his guilt.
Imposing a £200 fine, he also bound Kelly over to keep the peace for two years in the sum of £350. He explained to Kelly: “If you behave like that again over the next two years you will be dealt with for the new matter and have to pay the £350.”
The court had heard that around 2.45am on April 23, police were called to deal with youths drinking in a children’s playground at Derrin Park in Cornagrade, Enniskillen.
The officers asked the youths to leave.
Kelly, who was with the youths, became verbally abusive towards the police. He was told to leave and go home.
The prosecutor said Kelly then shouted at the officers: “F*** Ronan Kerr. I hope you all go boom like Ronan Kerr.”
