Jailed for squeezing garda’s buttocks

A Cavanman has been sentenced to three months in prison after assaulting a female garda by squeezing her buttocks.

Cavan District Court heard that on February 9, 2025, gardaí were called to Connolly Court apartments around 11am following a disturbance. All involved were reportedly intoxicated, Sergeant Lisa McEntee noted. As John Halpenny (41) was asked to leave, he allegedly “squeezed” Garda Shauna Ward’s buttocks while passing her. She immediately told him not to touch her and later reported the assault to her superiors.

Halpenny, of Ardkeen, Cavan Town, denied intentionally “grabbing” Garda Ward, claiming he had only “brushed past” her in the doorway.

The court heard he had 31 prior convictions, including for theft, criminal damage, public order offences, and failing to appear in court, with the most recent recorded in May 2025.

“He’s very lucky,” Judge Finnegan remarked, that Halpenny faced only an assault charge rather than a more serious offence.

Halpenny appeared for sentencing via video link from Castlerea Prison, with solicitor Damien Rudden saying his client apologises to Garda Ward, and acknowledged that time in prison had helped the defendant confront a long-standing struggle with alcohol.

Judge Finnegan, emphasising his firm stance on offences against frontline workers, jailed Halpenny, reminding the court: “My thoughts are well known” regarding anyone who interferes with those protecting the public.

Halpenny had been in custody since his arrest on a bench warrant the Tuesday before the Thursday court hearing.

The sentence imposed was backdated for time served, and legal aid was granted.

* This report was published with support from the Court Reporting Scheme.