A Belfast woman named Karen O’Brien, aged 52 and residing on Lenadoon Avenue, was given a suspended sentence after she entered a city centre bar, took out a fake gun, and claimed to be associated with the IRA. She pleaded guilty to carrying an imitation firearm in a public place. The judge, Philip Gilpin, decided to impose a six-month sentence suspended for a year, even though the custody threshold had been exceeded.
The incident occurred on May 26, 2023, at around 2 pm, when the police received a call from a staff member at the Morning Star bar and restaurant in Pottinger’s Entry. The police were informed that a woman was in the bar with a gun, threatening people. The police used the city centre CCTV system to locate O’Brien, arrested her, and found a black handgun in her handbag, which turned out to be a BB gun.
Witnesses from the bar staff reported that O’Brien pointed the gun at customers and declared, “I’m in the IRA.” During her arrest, she claimed it was just a joke. O’Brien admitted to being intoxicated and having alcohol problems. She stated that she did not recall saying she was in the IRA and apologized for her actions, citing alcohol as the reason for her behavior.
The court learned that O’Brien, educated to university level, aspired to become a teacher but struggled with alcohol addiction following a serious assault in her 30s. Her alcohol issues led to numerous hospital admissions, with 38 occurrences this year alone. Despite having 77 previous convictions for various offenses, including assaults on police and theft, O’Brien expressed remorse for her actions and acknowledged her embarrassment.
The judge expressed concern over O’Brien’s actions, noting that the imitation weapon she carried appeared realistic and could have caused fear in those present. He emphasized the dangers of brandishing such an item in public, especially while intoxicated. O’Brien’s probation officer confirmed her status as a recovering alcoholic living off benefits since 2012.
In conclusion, the court granted a request to destroy the imitation firearm. O’Brien’s case serves as a reminder of the consequences of alcohol abuse and the importance of seeking help for addiction issues. It also highlights the potential legal ramifications of carrying imitation weapons in public spaces, even if meant as a joke. Let us all take this as a lesson to promote responsible behavior and seek support when facing personal challenges.
