Trinity College gate case put back as accused is in hospital

John Farrell of Cabra charged with 22 offences including criminal damage

The front gate of Trinity College Dublin is sectioned off in April last year after it was damaged. Photograph: Bryan O’Brien
The front gate of Trinity College Dublin is sectioned off in April last year after it was damaged. Photograph: Bryan O’Brien

The DPP has completed the book of evidence in the case of a Dublin man awaiting trial for damaging the historic wooden front gate of Trinity College Dublin.

John Farrell (66), of Cabra, had been charged earlier with 22 offences including criminal damage, endangerment of life, dangerous driving and hit and run, in connection with the incident.

Last month he was unable to attend a court hearing because he was in hospital.

He was due to appear again at Dublin District Court today. However, Judge Michael Walsh was told that Mr Farrell was still in hospital. The case was pushed back until April 1st.

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The DPP directed he should face “trial on indictment”, meaning his case will be dealt with in the Circuit Court, which has tougher sentencing powers.