Man altered document for bank loan application

A MAN who doctored a document as part of a loan application was trying to borrow money to replace funds from joint savings with his partner.

Kevin Ward (27), Killery House, Upper Dargle Road, Bray, was charged with using a false instrument and forgery, on a date between January 21 and 27 last year.

On Thursday, April 19, Bray District Court heard thatWard had used his home computer to remove reference to a betting site from his bank statements. He submitted the loan application but subsequently ‘came to his senses’ and did not proceed with the process.

Barrister Shannon Biondi told the court that her client had a gambling addiction for five years. He and his girlfriend had saved money but he had dipped into that fund and, in order to fill in the gap, he thought of taking out a loan. He knew that he would have a slim chance of getting a loan with any gambling references, she explained.

Ms Biondi said that the manner of altering the documents was ‘unsophisticated’.

When his girlfriend realised the money was missing, he admitted his addiction and has since sought counselling. The couple are now engaged, the court heard. While Judge John Cheatle was prepared to adjourn the matter for an adult caution to be arranged, the defendant said that he would prefer to finalise the matter.

Judge Cheatle asked for a donation of €500 to the court poor box for Ward to avoid a conviction. The matter was adjourned to July 12 for payment.