Longford defendant served with book of evidence

A defendant accused of deception will have the charges against him heard in Longford Circuit Court.

Edward Stokes (43) of 2 Auburn Park, Edgeworthstown was charged with making gain or causing loss by deception at Longford Business and Technology Park on April 1, 2021 when he appeared at the recent sitting of the District Court.

It's alleged the defendant induced Malachy O'Reilly to pay €2,700 to fit a new engine to a vehicle with the intention of making gain for himself or causing a loss to another.

The prosecution's case will suggest that the alleged victim paid to have a new engine put into his van, but when he later checked the old engine was still in the van, despite having paid for the replacement.

Counsel for the defendant, Patrick O'Sullivan, said his client has no difficulty with amending the book of evidence from Eamon to Edward. Garda Cathal Slattery gave Judge Owens details of serving the book of evidence on Mr Stokes on the day of the court sitting.

Sergeant Enda Daly said the DPP was seeking to have the matter heard in the Circuit Court on January 10.

Judge Bernadette Owens issued the defendant with an alibi warning and also granted him legal aid. The defendant was remanded on bail on his own bond of €250. The matter will go before the January sitting of Longford Circuit Court.