A MAN has been banned from every pub in Dublin after running into a bar lounge trying to avoid gardai.

David Lee (30) struck a chasing garda over the head with an object he picked up off a bar table. He knocked over tables and stools after he and Garda Shane Haughney got into a struggle. Lee, who is unemployed, was ordered by a judge to stay out of every pub in the Dublin area for the next 12 months. Judge Alan Mitchell also imposed a four-month sentence suspended for one year.

Lee, of Primrose Grove in Darndale, admitted before Swords District Court to threatening and abusive behaviour and assaulting Gda Haughney.

Sgt Patrick Byrne said gardai were called to Castlegrange estate in Swords shortly after 8pm on March 25 last.

Bottle

Sgt Byrne said Lee's partner had asked him to leave the house and he agreed to leave the area. Sgt Byrne said Lee then threw a bottle at the patrol car.

He was chased on foot into the Estuary Pub on Swords North Street.

Gda Haughney followed Lee into the pub where there was an altercation before Lee was arrested.

Gda Haughney later received treatment for a cut to his head.

The court heard that Lee has 23 previous convictions, but hasn't been in trouble since February 2012.

hnews@herald.ie