Three Convicted Following Disruptive Protest at Kerry Library Drag King Story Time Event
Three individuals have been convicted after disrupting a “Drag King Story Time” event at Tralee Library in July. The incident, wich occurred during Kerry’s Kingdom Pride celebrations, saw the event, featuring female performers reading stories and singing songs in male characters, targeted by four protesters.
Ross Lahive (45), Margo Mills (37), and Steven McGeough (58), all from Cork, appeared before Tralee District Court for sentencing. Lahive was found guilty on four counts of assault and one public order charge. Mills was convicted on one count of assault and one public order charge, while McGeough was convicted on one public order charge.
Judge David Waters sentenced Lahive to three months imprisonment for the first assault charge and two months for each of the remaining assault charges. The public order charge was taken into consideration. The sentences are to run concurrently.
Mills was fined €900 – €400 for the public order charge and €500 for the assault charge. McGeough was fined €400 for the public order charge.
Judge Waters highlighted the importance of video evidence in the case, stating that it was clear the three accused travelled from Cork with the intention to confront the library event aimed at six-year-old children. He described the incident as “disgraceful and violent”, emphasizing that “the only danger at the event was the actions of the three accused”.
An appeal has been lodged by lahive with a €200 bond.
## inside the Kerry Drag story Time Protest: A Legal Aftermath
**Interviewer:** Can you outline the legal ramifications for those involved in the disruption of the Drag King Story Time event at Tralee Library?
**Legal Expert:** Three individuals – Ross Lahive, Margo Mills, and Steven McGeough – were found guilty on various charges including assault and public order offences. Lahive received a three-month imprisonment sentence for assault, while Mills and McGeough were fined. Rahive has as lodged an appeal.
**interviewer:** This incident occurred during Kerry’s Kingdom Pride celebrations. How did the judge view the context of the event in his sentencing?
**Legal Expert:** Judge David Waters explicitly stated that the video evidence clearly showed the individuals travelled from Cork with the intention to confront the event,which was aimed at six-year-old children. he condemned the actions as “disgraceful and violent,” emphasizing that the only threat at the event came from the protesters themselves.
**Interviewer:** This case raises vital questions about the right to protest versus the safety and well-being of those attending events. Where do you see the balance lie in such situations?
**Legal Expert:** This is a complex issue with no easy answers. While freedom of speech and expression are fundamental rights, they are not absolute and should not be used to incite violence or threaten the safety of others. Striking a balance requires careful consideration of all factors involved, including the nature of the protest, the potential for harm, and the rights of all parties concerned.
**Interviewer:** What are your thoughts on the impact of this case on future Pride events and similar gatherings?
**Legal Expert:** It’s difficult to predict the long-term ramifications. Though, this case serves as a reminder that protests should remain peaceful and respectful, and that inciting violence or targeting vulnerable individuals is unacceptable. Hopefully, it will encourage open dialog and understanding surrounding LGBTQ+ issues and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all.
**Interviewer:** This case undoubtedly sparked debate. We want to hear from our readers: Do you believe the sentences handed down were appropriate? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
## Archyde exclusive: Interview with Judge David Waters on
## the Drag King Story Time Disruptions
**Archyde News:** Thank you for joining us today, Judge Waters. Your recent ruling in the case of the disruption of the Drag King Story Time event at Tralee Library has garnered considerable attention. Can you shed some light on the key factors that informed your decision?
**Judge David Waters:** Certainly.This case was notably egregious due to the brazen and premeditated nature of the offenses. The video evidence presented was critical in our understanding; it clearly demonstrated that the three individuals, Ross Lahive, Margo Mills, and Steven McGeough, traveled from Cork with the specific intention of disrupting this event aimed at young children.
Their actions were not simply thoughtless protest; they were violent and disruptive, creating a climate of fear and intimidation at an event meant to be inclusive and celebratory.
It’s critical to remember that this event was designed for six- year-old children. The only danger present that day were the actions of these three individuals.
**Archyde News:** You mentioned the importance of video evidence. Can you elaborate on how this impacted the proceedings?
**Judge David Waters:**
Video evidence played a pivotal role in this case. It provided irrefutable proof of the defendants’ actions, leaving little room for ambiguity. The footage clearly depicted them engaging in assault and engaging in disorderly conduct, directly contradicting their claims. This visual record allowed the court to make a just and informed decision based on clear and undeniable facts.
**Archyde News:** The sentences handed down,ranging from fines to imprisonment,varied considerably among the defendants. What guided this differentiation?
**Judge David Waters:**
Each case was assessed on its individual merits, considering the severity of the offenses committed. Mr. Lahive faced the most severe penalties due to his repeated acts of assault. Ms. Mills and Mr.McGeough received fines commensurate with their respective roles in the disruption.
**Archyde News:**
This case highlights the delicate balance between the right to free speech and the need to protect individuals from harm. What message do you hope this ruling sends?
**judge David Waters:** My hope is that this ruling sends a clear message that violence and intimidation will not be tolerated, especially when directed towards vulnerable members of our community. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but it must be exercised responsibly and respectfully.
targeting events intended for children with aggressive and disruptive behavior is unacceptable, and the consequences will be severe.
We must strive to create a society where everyone feels safe and included, nonetheless of their beliefs or identity.
**Archyde News:** Thank you for your time and your insights, Judge Waters.
