Directionsstill awaited

A judge has remarked that a man accused of a drugs offence is entitled to see progress made in his case after hearing that DPP directions are still awaited.

However, Judge Owens added she would not accede to a defence application to strike out the charge.

John Cooney (50), 37 Riverside Drive, Red Barns Road, is accused of possession of cannabis for sale or supply at 37 Riverside Drive on 4 June, 2019.

Solicitor James MacGuill submitted that a full six months have passed and there are no directions which is unfair on his client.

Sgt Fintan McGroder said he has to wait for directions. There is a “high-end value” of drugs allegedly involved.

Mr MacGuill replied the prosecution will say €30,000. It is “unreal” that the district court would accept jurisdiction.

He sought to have the matter struck out, or for the court to refuse jurisdiction and “start time running”.

Sgt McGroder said directions are required, and noted this is the third time the case is in court.

“But the first time was in July,” the judge remarked.

The prosecution requested a two-month adjournment.

Mr MacGuill said that is more than would be permitted for a book of evidence. He suggested two weeks.

Judge Owens remanded John Cooney on continuing bail to 12 February, peremptory against the State.

Mr MacGuill added the accused man is on disability benefit. Legal aid was granted. has been remanded on continuing bail for a probation report.

Karl Leddy, St. Joseph’s Homeless Aid, North Strand, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to a charge of having a knife with a sharply-pointed blade.

Sgt Fintan McGroder gave evidence that on 16 September last gardaí received a report of a drunk man armed with a knife in the Castletown area.

They located Leddy in O’Hanlon Park. He was carrying cans of cider and a 6” steak knife.

He failed to comply with the guards and became abusive. The knife was taken off him.

The sergeant added no one else was in the vicinity.

There are seven previous convictions. Solicitor Paddy Goodwin said his client was very drunk on the night. At the time he was homeless and abusing drink.

Leddy is off drink now and living with his sister. He is apologetic for what occurred on this occasion.

Mr Goodwin asked the court to get a probation report.

Judge Owens said she would do that, even though there was no proper explanation as to why the defendant had a knife.

Karl Leddy was remanded on continuing bail to 11 March next. duster, and with assaulting a male causing him harm at Taaffe’s Bar, Newry Street, Carlingford, on 28 December, 2018.

Michael Lennon is further accused of being intoxicated in public and engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour in Newry Street, Carlingford on the same date.

Legal aid was granted.