18-year-old defendant denies being homophobic after incident in Dublin’s Phoenix Park

'This isn't some sort of attack on the gay community'

Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward described the attack to the Seanad on Wednesday, saying that three gay men were “hunted” in the park by a group of men during the evening of Monday, June 17.

Reece Murphy was charged yesterday with violent disorder and brandishing a hammer as a weapon.

The defendant’s solicitor, Wayne Kenny said: “My client wishes me to mention in open court that he is not someone who is in any way homophobic, and this isn't some sort of attack on the gay community, Judge. I am instructed to say that in open court, that he is anxious, that there is media present.”

In a statement to JOE on Sunday afternoon, a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána said: “Yesterday, Saturday 22nd June 2024, Gardaí arrested a man in connection to incidents of violent disorder reported to have taken place in the Phoenix Park on Monday, 17th June 2024.

“On the night of Monday 17th June, 2024 at approximately 11:30pm, Gardaí received an anonymous call relating to an incident in the Phoenix Park and attended.

“A search of the area was conducted and no persons made themselves known to Gardaí.

“Following on from further enquiries, Gardaí identified a suspect.

“The man, aged in his late teens, was arrested on suspicion of committing an offence contrary to the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Persons Act, 1997 and detained at a Garda Station in North Dublin.”

Gardaí also said that they have been in contact with LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups since the incident was reported.

The defendant appeared before Judge Treasa Kelly today dressed in a black jacket and grey jeans, the accused remained silent during the hearing but instructed his solicitor to address the court on his behalf.

Murphy was remanded on €800 bail with conditions pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions until September 16.