Teenager hid pipe bombs in bedroom

A Drogheda teenager was hiding pipe bombs and ammunition in his bedroom wardrobe to clear a drugs debt, the district court has heard.

During a search of the house last year, gardaí discovered two fully-prepared improvised pipe bombs and one partially constructed improvised pipe bomb, as well as 20 shotgun cartridges used in the construction of pipe bombs.

The officers also found a soother under a pillow on the boy’s bed on the same occasion, 2 November, 2017

The sixteen-year-old accused, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was aged 15 at the time.

He was before the court for possession of explosive substances and possession of ammunition.

Sgt Ray Brady pointed out the DPP has directed trial on indictment and also asked that cognisance be taken of the seriousness of the charges.

Defence solicitor Eleanor Kelly sought to have the matter remain in the district court.

She said her client developed a drug addiction and the dealers told him if he did this his debt would be cleared. He didn’t think his room would be searched because of his age.

The solicitor added the defendant was totally taken advantage of and will pay the price.

She continued if the case goes forward to the circuit court he will lose the benefit of the Children’s Act.

A probation officer said she has a lot of concerns about the youth, his peers and the people he is associating with, describing him as a ‘criminalised child’.

He had been given help before and didn’t engage with the services.

Judge Coughlan said these charges would automatically go into the circuit court to be dealt with, and it would be remiss of him to deal with them in the district court.

He refused jurisdiction. Ms Kelly said the boy will go forward on signed pleas of guilty.

A book of evidence is not required.

The case was adjourned to Drogheda court on 23 October for the defendant to sign pleas of guilty.

He was remanded in custody.