A former drug addict who threatened to shoot a garda and have his children kidnapped has been given a three year suspended sentence.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Stephen Devoy (33) was extremely drunk and had been binging on a cocktail of drink and drugs for days after selling his car for €700.

He had no recollection of making the threats to the garda, who arrested him outside Ned’s pub on Townsend St in Dublin city centre in the early hours of the morning.

Devoy, of Leo Fitzgerald House, Dublin 2, pleaded guilty to threatening to kill Garda Sam Taylor on February 26, 2012. He has 14 previous convictions, all dealt with in the District Court, including theft, public order offences and violent behaviour in a garda station.

Judge Desmond Hogan said he did not think sending Devoy to jail was “going to solve the problem,” and noted that Devoy has been drug-free for over a year and is attending Crumlin College studying Graphic & Web Design.

Fergal Foley BL, prosecuting, told the court that Gda Taylor was called to the scene and saw a pub customer holding Devoy down on the ground with two knives nearby.

The customer asked gardaí to take over restraining the man on the ground, who was wearing a balaclava.

Gda Taylor handcuffed the man and took off his balaclava. Devoy reacted violently and said to Gda Taylor, “Yer ma sucks cock.”

He was arrested and when Gda Taylor checked on him in the garda station he pointed to his chest and said, “I will have you shot and I'll also have your children kidnapped.”

Devoy was initially too drunk to be questioned but later made full admissions, although he said he couldn't remember the incident or having the knives.

Gda Taylor told the court that the threats made against him had caused him and his family great concern. A victim impact statement was handed to the court but not read out.

David Staunton BL, defending, said Devoy was deeply apologetic and had written a letter of apology to the court.

The court heard Devoy had a drug habit since his teenage years but is now drug free and engaging with treatment services. He intends to complete a course in advertising and graphic design and wants to get back into the workplace.

Judge Hogan also placed him on a peace bond for three years and directed he undergo a drugs and alcohol treatment programme.