Mr E. Poe-Hosford, the Secretary of the Limerick Board of Fishery Conservators, brought charges against Stephen McElligott of Convent Street. He was accused of unlawfully taking fish by using improper means on the 16th of this month at 4 a.m. The alleged offence occurred in Kilcreen, where McElligott was said to have taken trout with his hands from the mill race at the tail race leading to Mr Latchford’s mill. Additionally, James Daly of Convent Street faced charges of aiding and abetting McElligott during the same incident. The prosecution was led by Mr Condon, while Mr Marshall defended the accused.

The court decided to proceed first with the case against McElligott and address the other charge afterward. However, Mr Marshall expressed concern about his client being identified, which prompted a request from the Chairman to see the defendant. A constable informed the court that McElligott was at the back of the court and reluctant to show himself. The Chairman insisted on the defendant’s appearance, and McElligott eventually came forward, stating that he could be easily identified.

Mr Condon remarked that such incidents involving the boys from Convent Lane were becoming a recurring issue. He cited Section 75 of the Fisheries Act 1866 as the basis for the charge against McElligott. The prosecution intended to demonstrate that the defendant had violated the fishing regulations through his actions.

Kerry News – Wednesday 26 July 1905