Croatian prosecutors release new details on arrested Irishman's case

Croatian authorities have detailed the case of a 22-year-old Irish national, Rory Byrne, who was arrested in Novalja and is now facing charges of attempted coercion against a public official. The incident occurred during a public order intervention, leading to Byrne's detention and subsequent placement in investigative custody due to the risk of reoffending.

According to the State Attorney's Office in Zadar, Byrne allegedly insulted police officers, threw an object that struck a police vehicle, and attempted to push and punch an officer. He also reportedly resisted arrest. Police confirmed the intervention took place outside a hospitality venue and that Byrne was under the influence of alcohol and tested positive for drugs.

The case gained public attention after Byrne's family, speaking to Irish media, raised concerns about his medical care, citing his Type 1 diabetes. His mother expressed worry over his health condition. However, the police refuted these claims, stating that Byrne's diabetes was known, and he was allowed to contact a friend for insulin. When he did not feel better, officers took him to emergency services for treatment, and he was allowed to monitor his blood sugar with his own device.

Byrne was handed over to a detention supervisor and then to the County Court in Zadar, which ordered his investigative custody. The Ministry of Justice clarified that he arrived at the Zadar prison with his own insulin and received therapy. He was later examined by a prison doctor and transferred to the General Hospital Zadar for insulin therapy adjustment and blood sugar regulation, though he reportedly refused further diagnostic tests. Visits were permitted according to the investigative judge's decision, and the Irish Embassy in Croatia was informed.