Caused €700 damage to vending machine outside shop in Carlow town
Carlow courthouse Photo: Michael O'Rourke
A 22-YEAR-OLD man appeared before Carlow District Court after he caused €700 worth of damage to a vending machine when he struck it with a golf club.
Hou Tin Ieong, 22, Ferrybank, Old Leighlin Road, Graiguecullen, Carlow appeared before the court on charges of criminal damage, possession of an article and of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour at Maryborough Street, Carlow town on 25 June 2025.
On that date, gardaí were alerted to a report of criminal damage at Barrow Fishing Tackle Shop on Maryborough Street, Carlow town, after the owner of the shop noticed damage to a vending machine at the entrance to the store.
The court heard that CCTV footage of the incident showed a male hitting the vending machine with a golf club at approximately 2am, causing €700 worth of damage to the machine. Gardaí identified the man in the CCTV footage as Mr Ieong.
Mr Ieong, who has one previous conviction for careless driving dating back to 13 May 2025, was already in garda custody when the report was made.
Defence solicitor Joe Farrell told the court that his client has significant mental health issues.
Presenting the CCTV footage to Judge Geraldine Carthy, Mr Farrell said that it was clear Mr Ieong was tapping the golf club against the vending machine as opposed to swinging it, adding: “He was cross and wanted to break something.” Judge Geraldine Carthy remanded Mr Ieong on continuing bail until Wednesday 25 March, when he must hand €700 as compensation into the court, and directed that a probation report must also be presented.
In respect of section 9(5) for possession of an article, the gardaí are to contact the director of public prosecutions. Funded by the court reporting scheme
