A man sent a “vile” video message to his former pregnant partner threatening her and her unborn child.
Garret McGinley appeared before Letterkenny Circuit Court where he was appealing a three month sentence imposed by the District Court.
He had been found guilty under the non-fatal offences act.
The 34-year-old of William Street in Raphoe sent the video message back in September 2015 when his then partner was four months pregnant.
The court was shown the message in which he spoke to camera and threatened to “take that wean out of you – that’s a promise. A promise that if you f*** it up, I am gong to f*** you up”.
When arrested and brought to Milford Garda Station, McGinley made a full admission to sending the message to her mobile phone. He has 16 previous convictions.
The court was told that McGinley’s former partner was now in a long term relationship.
Mr Damien Crawford Barrister for McGinley told the court his client was fully co-operative and “was shocked himself when he saw the hurt he would have caused”.
“He said he was stoned as well as had been drinking for a few days. He felt if his partner moved away he would have no contact. It is six years ago since this happened and he has no convictions since. She has no more contact with him.
“He lost control of himself and made the video to his partner. He never intended to carry
out any of what he said.
“He has been homeless for a considerable time, has addiction issues and on disability because of mental health issues.
“He has secured a permanent base in the last two years and has finally got a floor in his world. I would ask the court to consider the lapse of time since. He has genuine remorse,” Mr Crawford added.
Judge John Aylmer said the Probation and Welfare Reports go back to 2018 saying unsuitable for Community Service.
“Do you think he has changed and might get a more positive report?
“I don’t see any merit in the appeal. It was a vile message that was left. I will adjourn to next term and update the Probation Report and see if suitable for Community Service,” he concluded.