Man in court following attempted arson and criminal damage in St Johnston

A man has appeared in court following a series of attacks on religious buildings in St Johnston.

Ryan McCrabbe appeared at a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court yesterday evening following a number of alleged arson attacks on buildings in Johnston last night.

The 27-year-year-old is charged that on August 28 at the Loyal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, Royal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged. The charge is Contrary to Section 2 of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

He is also charged that on the same date at St Baithins Church, St Johnston did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, St Baithins Church, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged. This charge is also Contrary to Section 2 of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

McCrabbe is also charged that on the same date at St Johnston Masonic Hall, Church Lane, St Johnston, did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, Royal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged. This was also Contrary to Section 2 of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

Garda Sergeant Maurice Doyle told the court that there would be an objection to bail. However, solicitor for the accused Mr Patsy Gallagher said he was postponing an application for bail at this point.

He said his client, of McCann's Corner, St Johnston, was currently on dialysis at Letterkenny University Hospital and needed medical attention for his ongoing condition. Mr Gallagher added: "I am rather concerned about his health situation."

He also asked the court to ensure that his client was psychologically or psychiatrically assessed as soon as possible. However, Mr Gallagher added that his client fully understands the charges and has given instructions to him. Mr Gallagher said he was not putting words in the court's mouth but Judge Ciaran Liddy said "Your words are welcome."

Judge Liddy agreed to all requests for medical treatment. The case was adjourned to Tuesday, September 3, by videolink at Letterkenny District Court.