Posted by Updated / Wednesday, 18 Feb 2026 16:50
A man has pleaded guilty to allowing his German Shepherd dog attack a Garda Sergeant in Co Longford more than seven years ago.
Edward ‘Blondie’ Stokes entered a late plea just before his jury trial was set to begin at Longford Circuit Court this morning.
His wife Sharon Stokes also entered a guilty plea to the production of a slash hook in the course of the same dispute.
Mr Stokes pleaded guilty to a charge of endangerment at Ferriskill, Granard, Co Longford, on 3 December, 2018 during which he allowed his dog to attack Garda Inspector Tom Quinn.
Mr Quinn was a Sergeant at Granard Garda Station at that time.
John Shortt SC, for Mr Stokes, sought an adjournment of sentencing, stating his client is currently serving a prison term for another matter, and requested a governor’s report.
Mr Stokes is “rehabilitating well” in custody, he said, and he will have a number of certificates and other documents to furnish to the court ahead of a sentence hearing.
Dara Foynes SC told the court that her client, Sharon Stokes, is a mother-of-seven.
She requested a probation report for the purpose of assessing her suitability for community service.
Judge Dunphy directed the requested reports in the case of both defendants and said he would adjourn the case for the attention of his colleague, Judge Kenneth Connolly.
Stephen Falkner BL, instructed by state solicitor Mark Connellan for the Director of Public Prosecutions, informed the court that Inspector Quinn would like the matter dealt with within these sessions if possible.
Judge Dunphy directed the preparation of a victim impact statement, which is to be furnished to the defence as soon as possible, and adjourned the case to next week for sentence.
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