Women arrested over altercation in Athlone courthouse

Two local women were arrested for their part in an altercation in Athlone District Court this morning (Wednesday).

Both women then appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes in the afternoon.

As the morning court was in session, a loud commotion could be heard in the foyer of the building and Gardai who were present in the courthouse immediately intervened.

Two women were arrested for their role in the disturbance and were brought to Athlone Garda Station.

When they later appeared at their court hearing, the pair told Judge Seamus Hughes that they had attended the courthouse to support a relative, a juvenile, who was due to appear at the children's court.

However, both claimed they were attacked by members of a family with whom they are in dispute.

One of the women told Judge Hughes she had been struck by a male and had hit him back.

She said that she has made complaints to the gardai in the past but they just say they will talk to the other side and never get back to her.

The arresting officer said he was not aware who had started the incident this morning. He said both sides were at it when he went out to the foyer.

Inspector Aidan Minnock said the gardai are happy to entertain complaints from members of the public and he assured the court they would be investigated.

He said that, in relation to the ongoing dispute between a number of families in the town, the State would be looking at having the parties bound to the peace.

Judge Hughes adjourned the case against both women until January 6 next.