The inquiry into the charges brought against Sergeant Healy by Head Constable Spence continued with Mr O’Hara and Mr Cruise presiding. The charges involved alleged tippling and being off his beat on a particular day. Mr Loch acted as the prosecutor, and Mr Roger Fox represented Sergeant Healy.

Constable McMahon gave his testimony, stating that he saw Sergeant Healy near John o’Keeffe’s in the town at around 2:40 pm. They spoke for about seven to ten minutes, during which Sergeant Healy showed no signs of tippling. Later, when Constable McMahon saw him after 3 o’clock, there was no change in the sergeant’s appearance, and he did not seem to have been drinking. The constable considered the side of the lane they were in as a public place, although he was aware that some people used it as a urinal. He clarified that if Sergeant Healy entered the lane for duty or another necessary purpose, it would not be considered being off his beat.

Mr Fox questioned Constable McMahon about the sergeant’s speech and whether he noticed any signs of intoxication. The constable replied that he observed no change in Sergeant Healy’s speech, and his eyes were not glistening. He also did not detect any smell of alcohol.

Constable Gallagher also provided evidence, stating that he began his duty at 3 o’clock. The discussion revolved around the incident in question, and the constable emphasized that men would not normally come to the barracks for such an occasion. He clarified that he did not notice any unusual behavior in Sergeant Healy, and they were side by side during their interaction.

The inquiry continued with further questioning, examining the circumstances surrounding the alleged tippling and the sergeant’s conduct on the day in question. The case remained complex, with varying perspectives on the events that transpired.

Constabulary Gazette (Dublin) – Saturday 11 March 1905