Longford man sent forward for trial
A Longford man is to stand trial next month accused of the unlawful taking of a vehicle while in the possession of a knife.
David Stafford, with an address at 70 Ardnacassa Avenue, Ballinalee Road, Longford, was brought before a sitting of Longford District Court last Tuesday charged with a number of offences dating between last December and June this year.
They include alleged offences of assault at an address in Longford town on December 18, 2022, criminal damage on April 23 this year as well as trespass and the possession of two crowbars, two screwdrivers, a bottle of ammonia and gloves the following day.
The court was told Mr Stafford was currently in custody on the charges before the court as Detective Garda Brendan Glynn took to the witness stand.
He said shortly before last Tuesday's district court sitting he formally charged Mr Stafford in connection to alleged incidents at Townspark Industrial Estate, Strokestown Road, Longford on June 22 this year which involved the alleged unauthorised taking of a vehicle and the possession of a knife.
Judge Bernadette Owens was informed the State was “hopeful” of having a book of evidence ready to be served on Mr Stafford in a week's time.
Defence solicitor Fiona Baxter requested for full disclosure of statements and State evidence in relation to the case to be made ahead of that sitting.
Legal aid was also granted to Mr Stafford as he was remanded in custody for a further week ahead of the expected servicing of a book of evidence at yesterday's (Tuesday) sitting of Longford District Court.