A campaign of intimidation has been waged against a senior Donegal County Council official and other staff after a person was refused housing.
Staff at County House in Lifford were intimidated
The campaign came to a head yesterday after hundreds of fake racist emails were sent out claiming to be from the council official.
It has now been revealed the campaign started a year ago when several staff at County House in Lifford were sent abusive emails.
The senior official targeted yesterday had confronted the person and told them that such offensive emails would not be tolerated.
He also told the person that all housing applications would be considered in the normal way on merit.
The person also allegedly registered web domain names in the council official’s name in order to pursue a personal campaign against him.
Gardaí investigated the matter and, it is understood, a file was prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. It is also understood computer equipment was seized as part of the inquiry.
The alleged intimidation ceased for a period of time but recommenced on Thursday when the individual concerned both texted and phoned the official on his mobile number while he was at home.
Sources said the council’s solicitors had written to the individual concerned.
The emails send yesterday claims to be from the official and that he is starting a new political party in Donegal.
The email also contains racist comments.
Gardaí are now also investigating the latest contact with the official and the emails sent in recent days.
A Garda spokesman said he could not comment on named individuals.