A FORMER security van driver who alleged he suffered post-traumatic stress as a result of being kidnapped and threatened by a man wielding a chain has settled his High Court action on undisclosed terms.
Christopher Quinlan (41), of Kilcock, Co Kildare, had sued Securicor Security Services Ireland Limited over the incident in 2003. The defendant denied liability.
Mr Justice John Quirke was told the incident occurred just after Mr Quinlan finished his night patrol on May 25th, 2003.
Michael McMahon SC, for Mr Quinlan, said his client, while carrying his “smoke box” from his van to the Securicor premises at Galvone Industrial Estate, Limerick, was confronted by a “skinhead” who appeared to be on drugs, had a chain wrapped around his fist and was holding a bottle of drink.
Counsel said this man would have “put the fear of God” in anyone and his client was extremely afraid. The man erroneously believed Mr Quinlan’s “smoke box” contained cash, counsel said.
The man had demanded Mr Quinlan open the box but, on seeing there was no money in it, ordered Mr Quinlan to drive him to various halting sites throughout Limerick city, counsel said.
Mr McMahon said the man had his hands in his pockets pointing to what may have been a gun at Mr Quinlan who did not know whether it was a finger or a gun. At one stage, Mr Quinlan jumped from the van, but was followed by the man who stole a small amount of money from him.
The effects of post-traumatic stress came over his client in waves during the next four or five years, counsel said.
Later yesterday, the judge was told the case had been settled and could be struck out.
