Thousands of seized money donated to Longford based Family Resource Centres
Two Police Property Act applications in respect of large sums of cash were dealt with in Longford District Court.
The first related to an unclaimed sum uncovered in a Garda drugs raid. On June 22, 2016 officers conducted a search of premises at Strokestown Road, Longford. While searching a bedroom in the house they found cannabis to the value of €1,985, cocaine valued at €135, €470 worth of MDMA and diamorphine (heroin) valued at €145. The officers also found €14,378 in cash, £41.15 sterling and 14 mobile phones.
The investigation did not succeed in linking the drugs or money to anyone. Inspector Patrick McGirl made the application under the Police Property Act to Judge Bernadette Owens.
At the hearing Sgt Enda Daly said that although three people were arrested in connection with the search all denied ownership and there was no forensic evidence to connect any of the accused to the items.
Sgt Daly said the owner of the rented property denied any knowledge of the money and the drugs.
The State's application was that €10,000 be donated to the Lus na Gréine Family Resource Centre in Granard and the balance to Rath Mhuire and Dolmen Community Resources also in Granard.
Judge Owens asked why the State had suggested that all the money go to the charities located in Granard. After a consultation with the Gardai it was agreed that the €10,000 be donated to Las na Gréine and the balance to the Bridgeways Family Resource Centre, located in Ballymahon.
The second application related to cash seized earlier this year. The initial application by a Longford Superintendent was contested by Christina Doyle, Linda Doyle, Thomas Doyle.
That Police Property Act applications related to two separate sums; €35,000 and €1,710 seized on April 26, 2023.
Solicitor Brid Mimnagh said that only one of the three initially listed was now looking for the return of the cash. Sergeant Enda Daly confirmed a single individual, Christina Doyle, had come forward to claim ownership of the property.
Sgt Daly asked Judge Owens for time to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecution. Judge Owens adjourned the matter to January 16, 2024 to see if a further hearing date is required.