A man who pleaded guilty to possession of a samurai sword in Tallaght two months ago was reenacting a scene from the popular TV series “Game of Thrones”, Tallaght Court heard this morning.
Sergeant Bernard Jones told Judge Bridget Reilly that Aiden Rafter, who was wearing a balaclava at the time of the incident, had been carrying out “a prank”. He added: “He was reenacting a scene from Game of Thrones”.
Judge Reilly commented: “I suggest you do that when you are being as well paid as the actors involved”.
Rafter (31), of Parkwood Lawns, Tallaght, had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a samurai sword at the Firhouse Road West, Tallaght, on July 7th, 2014.
Judge Reilly had put the case back to consider jurisdiction.
Sergeant Jones said that at 1.30am on the above date, gardaí received a report that a man was walking down Firhouse Road with a samurai sword. He said Rafter had been involved in a prank with a friend.
Judge Reilly commented: “It was very foolish. It is more suited to theatrical theatre. It gives rise to all sorts of fears and threats”.
Sgt Jones said Rafter had no previous convictions.
Judge Reilly said she was prepared to accept jurisdiction.
Rafter’s defence lawyer, Kevin Tunney, said his client had pleaded guilty at the earliest possible opportunity. He said: “It was a prank, a stupid prank. He is mortified.”
Mr Tunney said Rafter is a trained welder, had worked all his life and is currently doing a FAS course. He said Rafter wants to emigrate to Canada.
Judge Reilly said she would strike out the case if Rafter paid €400 to charity. The €400 was paid and the case was struck out.