Woman Secures Protection Order After Intimidating Threats

UPDATE: A young woman has secured a protection order from the Dublin District Family Court after her ex-partner and his mother allegedly showed up at her home wearing balaclavas, aiming to “intimidate” her. The chilling incident occurred recently, prompting urgent action from the court as the woman described severe threats made against her safety.

In her testimony, the woman detailed how her former partner, who she shares a child with, threatened to “smash” her home and “put the car through it.” Due to the escalating threats, she was required to attend court accompanied by a garda.

“He was pointing at me in my front garden, intimidating me with threats on the phone,” she told Judge Gerard Furlong, who presided over the case. The woman recounted a particularly distressing night when both her ex-partner and his mother appeared at her doorstep, creating a hostile environment.

Additionally, the woman revealed that the man’s mother attempted to confront her while she was at court seeking the protection order, yelling for her to come outside. “They were threatening my mam to come out and threatening to hit her too,” she stated, highlighting the severity of the intimidation.

Judge Furlong responded with concern, stating, “Absolutely not,” when the woman expressed her inability to continue living under such fear. He granted her an ex-parte protection order, prohibiting her ex-partner from using or threatening violence against her. A full hearing is set for later this month, during which her ex-partner is expected to attend.

The judge also pointed out the limitations of the family court, emphasizing that the actions of the man’s mother are beyond his jurisdiction. He encouraged the woman to seek a restraining order against her ex-partner’s mother, indicating the need for further protective measures.

In a separate but equally alarming case, an older woman secured an interim barring order against her two adult sons after disturbing evidence of drug use was found in her home. She reported that a bag of ketamine, a potent substance, was discovered in her grandson’s bedroom, raising serious concerns for the child’s safety.

“This poses a huge risk to my grandson’s life,” the woman stated, revealing her son’s escalating struggles with addiction. She described the volatile environment created by her son, who frequently arrives at her home under the influence of substances, leading to threatening behavior.

Judge Furlong recognized the gravity of the situation, stating that a protection order would not suffice. He subsequently granted interim barring orders against both sons, preventing them from entering the family home for a period of eight days. Another hearing is scheduled, allowing the woman to request longer-term barring orders.

Both cases underscore the urgent need for protective measures in domestic situations where threats and intimidation are present. As these cases develop, the safety and well-being of those involved remain paramount.

These stories serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding domestic violence and substance abuse, highlighting the critical need for legal protections and support systems for vulnerable individuals.