Teen in court accused of unlawful taking of car in Laois

A teenager appeared in court in connection with the unlawful taking of a car in Laois. 

The teen (16), who cannot be named due to his age but who has a Laois address, was accused of criminal damage and the unlawful taking of a car in Laois on February 28, 2024. 

Judge Andrew Cody said there were eight to ten individuals accused in relation to the unlawful taking of cars in Laois and the cases appeared to be all connected. He said the DPP had yet to decide if they would be heard in the district court or the higher circuit court. 

He said the charges  in what he believed were connected cases relating to the theft of Japanese imports. He put the matter back to October 3 for directions from the DPP. 

Judge Andrews said many of the individuals facing charges are on strict bail conditions since February. He said he would consider altering conditions once the DPP gives directions. 

If the cases are to remain in the district court, Judge Cody said he would fix a special sitting date of November 29 to hear the cases. 

He remanded the defendant on bail to appear again before Portlaoise District Court on October 3.