Limerick, Ireland – At the Quarter Sessions held in Limerick on Saturday, an application for compensation was made by Sergeant Patrick McCarthy of O’Briensbridge. The sergeant sought £100 in compensation for injuries sustained while performing his duties at Mount Pelier on the 18th of March.

On the aforementioned date, Sergeant McCarthy and another constable arrested an individual in a licensed house in Mount Pelier due to their involvement in a disturbance. While escorting the arrested individual to the barracks, a stone was thrown by a member of the surrounding crowd, striking the back of Sergeant McCarthy’s head. The impact rendered him unconscious, and he was subsequently confined to bed for twenty-six days.

After presenting evidence supporting the facts of the case, Sergeant McCarthy’s claim for compensation was successful. His Honor, presiding over the proceedings, awarded him a sum of 50 guineas in compensation for his injuries.

Following the decision, Mr Phelys, S.L., acting on instructions from Mr W. Leahy, made an application to allocate a portion of the awarded amount to County Clare. The incident occurred on the border of the two counties, and it was argued that the responsibility should be shared. However, His Honor denied the application, ruling that the entire amount would be levied from County Limerick.

Representing Sergeant McCarthy, Mr P. Lynch, B.L., instructed by Mr Gaffney, presented the case on behalf of the applicant.

The outcome of this compensation claim serves as a reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and highlights the importance of recognizing and compensating for injuries sustained while protecting the public.

Constabulary Gazette (Dublin) – Saturday 11 June 1904