"Moronically stupid": disgraced politician's son lit firework in Copper's

At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Oliver Callely (27) of Clontarf, Dublin, pleaded guilty to igniting fireworks at Copper Face Jacks nightclub on Harcourt Street on July 6, 2015. A firework lit on a balcony overlooking a crowded smoking area became lodged against a man, causing burn injuries requiring multiple attendances at a burns unit. The victim reported ongoing discomfort but did not seek a custodial sentence. Callely's legal team described the act as "moronically stupid and dangerous," attributing it to excessive alcohol consumption following a Dublin-Mayo football replay. He had previously received the Probation Act for assault at the same venue and was on bail when this incident occurred. Callely had fled to the United States before being charged, subsequently arrested under an extradition warrant. Judge Karen O'Connor adjourned sentencing to February 7, requesting a Probation Service report assessing suitability for community service. The maximum penalty is five years imprisonment.