Man accused of criminal damage in Portlaoise

A solicitor sought to have criminal damage charges struck out at Portlaoise District Court. 

Paul Graham, 34, with an address at 9 Highfield Meadows, Portlaoise is accused of one count of criminal damage to Apartment 3 and three counts of criminal damage to Apartment 1 both at Block 2, Fieldbrook, Portlaoise on February 8 last.  The charges related to a front door and window at Apartment 3 and a wall, car and windows at Apartment 1.  

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the damage allegedly amounted to €7,000.

Solicitor Aonghus McCarthy said his client was seeking to have the matter struck out. He said the two alleged injured parties haven’t been cooperating with gardai. 

“There will not be a case unless these persons want to progress the case,” said Mr McCarthy.  He said his client was on strict bail conditions in relation to the matter. 

Judge Andrew Cody said there was consent to the bail conditions. 

Mr McCarthy said there was an understanding that the case would be progressed quickly. 

Sgt JJ Kirby described the case as a relatively new matter and said it happened this year. 

Judge Cody adjourned the case until July 6 for DPP directions and marked it peremptory against the State.