Men demand money from local publican

GROUP SUBSEQUENTLY ARRESTED

A NUMBER of men called to a publican in Coolaney and demanded money, Sligo District Court heard.

They subsequently left in a 2004 Mercedes car which was stopped in Castlebaldwin by Gardai and seized.

Detective Sergeant James O’Leary said the three men called to the home of the publican on January 14th. He said they demanded money before leaving.

A witness managed to note the car’s registration number and the Gardai were contacted.

The car was stopped in Castlebaldwin, three men were arrested and the Mercedes was seized.

Det. Sgt. O’Leary said the car was still in the possession of the Gardai for technical examination.

The court heard that Patrick Glavin of Temple Gardens, North Wood, Santry, Dublin was claiming ownership of the car.

He made an application under the Police Property Act to have the Mercedes returned to him.

Mr. Gerry McCanny, solicitor (for Glavin), said his client was the owner of the car but it wasn’t registered in his name at the time.

Det. Sgt. O’Leary said a fourth person had recently been arrested in connection with the incident.

The car was being examined to see if this person had been the driver.

Witness said Glavin had called to Sligo Garda Station and produced a registration certificate in the name of another person.

Samples had been taken from the car but it could take up to six months before results were ready.

Mr. McCanny said Glavin believed the investigation was complete and he was anxious to have his car back.

Det. Sgt. O’Leary said he would write a report to the Superintendent in the Technical Bureau to try to expedite matters.

Judge Kevin Kilrane said he could give the Gardai time to complete their technical examination of the car.

The ownership of the car was a secondary issue at this stage, he added.

The case was adjourned for mention to April 25th.