Elderly Kildare man robbed of his late wife's memorial card and up to €9,000 after assault - Kildare court claim

A elderly man’s home was broken into and a wallet containing up to €9,000 cash and his wife's memorial card was stolen - it was alleged at Naas District Court.

Before the court was Andy Cash, 29, whose address was given as 2 Ardristan Heights, Tullow, Carlow, who faces allegations of assault, burglary and entering with intent to commit theft.

Detective Garda Pamela Whelan said it will be alleged that the incidents took place on January 27 at Ballitore. The garda also said there was an objection to bail being granted and CCTV footage is being gathered.

Det Gda Whelan said runners were seized from the defendant's caravan that appear to have been used in the incident.

She said that around 6pm a man with his face partially covered attempted to force open a front door and this was captured on CCTV.

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A few minutes later an 80 year old male living alone at a neighbouring property woke to find two men in his bedroom.

He was held down by his hands and by bodily pressure and a wallet containing between €7,000-€9,000 was taken.

She said that this was basically all of the man’s money.

Det Gda also alleged that the man was punched in the face by one of the men and spent two nights in Naas Hospital and his ribs are still sore.

She also said the man could have been unconscious for two hours.

Det Gda Whelan said it will be alleged that the defendant was the front seat passenger of a car seen in Tullow  by an off duty garda, who suspected it may have been involved in incidents in Wexford.

She said the loss of his wife's memorial card was upsetting for the injured party.

She said she was not willing to withdraw objections to bail if conditions could be agreed.

Defending barrister Donncha Craddock said the defendant was incorrectly identified and the case against him amounted to hearsay.

He said he was identified through a runner which could have been owned by anybody and the defendant is denying he was involved in this.

Sgt Mary Meade said the injured party sustained serious injuries and there was a concern that further offences might be committed.

Judge Desmond Zaidan said strict bail conditions would not be appropriate and he initially adjourned the case, initially remanding the defendant in custody.