An inquiry was conducted at Kilfinane to investigate charges brought against Sergeant Healy by Head Constable Spence. The charges included allegations of the sergeant being absent from his beat in Kilfinane at 3 p.m. on December 28th, 1904, and engaging in “tippling” before that time. Sergeant Healy vehemently denied both charges.

The court, presided over by Mr O’Hara, D. I., Limerick, and Mr R. F. R. Cruise, D. I., Abbeyfeale, had Mr G. G. G. Loch, D. I., as the prosecutor, while Mr Roger, from Kilmallock, represented Sergeant Healy.

Head Constable James P. Spence was the first witness called and was examined by Mr Loch. He testified, “I remember the 28th of December, 1904. I went on duty in the town at 2:55 p.m.” He further explained that he went down Barrack Street to check if Sergeant Healy was on his beat.

Mr Loch inquired about the steps taken by the head constable, to which he responded, “I walked down to the place where I could see the end of the street—the Main Street—and as I didn’t see him at the end of the street, I turned back.” Head Constable Spence then recounted how he spotted Sergeant Healy coming out of an entrance between Brennan’s and McCarthy’s public houses. He mentioned that Sergeant Healy had the appearance of having consumed alcohol.

When questioned by the court president about the distance between them when he confronted the sergeant, Head Constable Spence stated, “A few yards, sir: he then turned around, and I came up to him.” He disclosed the conversation between them, where he asked what the sergeant was doing in that yard, to which Sergeant Healy replied with a private explanation. It was at this point that Head Constable Spence observed the appearance of alcohol influence on Sergeant Healy.

The court’s proceedings revealed the seriousness of the charges and the significance of the evidence presented. The inquiry aimed to reach a just conclusion regarding the allegations against Sergeant Healy.

Constabulary Gazette (Dublin) – Saturday 25 February 1905