Judge issues fine after intoxication incident in Mayo county town

A 64-year-old Ukrainian national was fined after appearing before Castlebar District Court in connection with an incident in the town earlier this month.

Serhii Marynin, of Pontoon Bridge Hotel, pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 4 of the Public Order Act.

The court heard there was a Russian interpreter present and the plea was entered at the earliest opportunity.

Court presenter Sergeant John O'Reilly said that on Monday, February 2, 2026, gardaí received a report of an intoxicated male at the Mall, Castlebar.

He said he observed the accused to be highly intoxicated, with bloodshot eyes and he was unsteady on his feet.

Gardaí believed the accused was a danger to himself and others and he was arrested and charged.

Judge Sandra Murphy asked if there was evidence of arrest, charge and caution, and was informed there was.

The court heard Marynin had one previous conviction before Castlebar District Court on July 16, 2025, also under Section 4 of the Public Order Act, for which he was fined €100.

Defence solicitor Mr. Gary Mulchrone said his client had been living in Ireland for approximately two-and-a-half years and was originally from the Odessa region of Ukraine.

He said Marynin was not working and had limited means, adding that he had difficulty regulating his alcohol consumption and was living a lonely existence without a strong support network.

Mr. Mulchrone said the incident occurred around the time of his grandson’s birthday, which had caused him to feel a sense of separation.

He told the court his client was very sorry and willing to pay whatever fine was imposed.

Judge Murphy noted that alcohol appeared to be an issue.

Mr. Mulchrone said that a Ukrainian support worker who was based in Castlebar could assist his client in avoiding further difficulties.

Judge Murphy convicted Marynin and imposed a fine of €150.

* Funded under the Courts Reporting Scheme.