'I want to protect children' says sword-wielding great-grandfather
A SAMURAI sword-wielding great-grandfather who waved the weapon in front of two children told their mothers he was on the hunt for a paedophile in Delancey Park, the Magistrate's Court heard.
Michael Moriarty, 68, pleaded guilty to carrying the dangerous weapon – a 15in. blade – and causing the women to fear for their own and their children's safety.
The incident, which occurred just before 1pm on Thursday 7 August, sparked a major police operation, with dog handlers and armed officers attending.
At roughly 12.45pm, Tina Mechem and Jane Horkan were walking separately around the park with their children, the court heard.
Moriarty first approached Ms Horkan, initially appearing friendly, and enquired if she had seen a man with a blue woollen hat trying to entice children into the bushes.
The 68-year-old then told her he was going to find and kill the man, pulling the sword out to show her.
He went on to approach Ms Mechem, again asking her if she had seen the man and brandishing the weapon.
Moriarty then left the park and walked home.
The women immediately directed police to the property and he was arrested, following a trip to hospital after complaining about chest pains.
In interview, he told the police he wanted to protect children.
Moriarty was sentenced to three months in prison for carrying the weapon, which was suspended for two years.
