Farmer Accused of Harassment Tears Up Charges in Court

UPDATE: A Clare farmer, Jim Greene, has been charged with harassing a young couple in Inagh, escalating tensions that have lasted for months. During a court appearance at Ennis District Court today, Greene, aged 55, dramatically tore up the charge sheets in front of officials, declaring, “these are not charges of law. This is a spiritual law matter.”

The charges against Greene involve the harassment of new homeowners Robert Foley and Ciara O’Flynn from February 17 to May 5, 2025. He faces allegations under Section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. Additionally, Greene is charged with committing arson, having allegedly caused damage worth €16,743 to items in the couple’s new home located in Ballyea North.

Garda Bríon Dolan, who testified during the court proceedings, confirmed that when Greene was cautioned, he tore up the charge sheets and insisted the matter was of a spiritual nature. The court has ruled that the case will move forward to the circuit court, requiring a Book of Evidence.

In a separate harassment case involving a former neighbor, Greene is also facing charges of harassment against John O’Brien, with incidents reported between January 27 and February 18, 2025. Greene’s solicitor, Tara Godfrey, sought an extension of legal aid for a psychiatric evaluation, but Greene interrupted, reiterating his belief that he was engaged in a “spiritual law matter.”

Greene has been in custody at Limerick prison since May 7, following a bail hearing where Judge Alec Gabbett denied his release. The court was informed that Foley and O’Flynn had been “driven so demented” by Greene’s actions that they felt compelled to seek a circuit court injunction against him.

Witness accounts also revealed that Greene had parked his vehicle in a manner that blocked access to the couple’s new home, preventing them from moving in since their purchase late last year. The situation escalated when Greene allegedly emailed their solicitors, claiming to be “God’s Enforcer” and entitled to investigate supposed witchcraft in the property.

This troubling case continues to unfold, with significant implications for all parties involved. As the legal proceedings advance, the community is watching closely, with many expressing concern over Greene’s alleged actions and the impact on the couple’s right to their home.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story progresses.