Husband and Wife Plead Guilty in Garda Dog Attack and Slash Hook Incident

Longford Circuit Court saw guilty pleas from Edward ‘Blondie’ Stokes and his wife, Sharon Stokes, related to an incident dating back to December 3, 2018, involving a Garda Sergeant and a weapon. Edward Stokes pleaded guilty to endangering Garda Inspector Tom Quinn, who was a Sergeant at Granard Garda Station at the time, by allowing his German Shepherd dog to attack him. Sharon Stokes pleaded guilty to producing a slash hook during the same altercation.

Details of the Incident and Pleas

Edward Stokes entered his late plea just before his jury trial was scheduled to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. His wife, Sharon Stokes, a mother-of-seven, also entered a guilty plea. The incident occurred at Ferriskill, Granard, Co Longford, in 2018.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

John Shortt SC, representing Mr. Stokes, requested an adjournment of sentencing, citing his client’s current imprisonment for an unrelated matter. He indicated that a governor’s report would be submitted, noting Mr. Stokes is “rehabilitating well” and acquiring certificates even as in custody. Dara Foynes SC, representing Sharon Stokes, requested a probation report to assess her suitability for community service.

Judge Dunphy directed the preparation of both requested reports and a victim impact statement, to be furnished to the defense. He adjourned the case to the following week for sentencing, transferring it to the attention of Judge Kenneth Connolly. Stephen Falkner BL, representing the Director of Public Prosecutions, informed the court that Inspector Quinn wished for the matter to be resolved promptly.

Previous Reports

Initial reports in April 2020 indicated that a dog was shot, and Mr. Stokes was shot in the foot during the incident . At that time, Edward Stokes was remanded on bail of €1,000, and Sharon Stokes was also granted bail with strict conditions.