Allegedly took deposits and never began house works

A 39-year-old man is alleged to have taken cash deposits from people with the promise of undertaking home improvement works and never returning.

Martin Sweeney of Cloonacool, Tubbercurry was before Sligo District Court on four separate charges.

It is alleged on November 29 th, 2019 at Ballybeg, Ransboro, Sweeney did dishonestly, by deception induce Olive Carter to give him €450 on the promise of carrying out work, namely bleaching walls and painting, and failed to.

On July 27 th, 2019 at Roughan, Sooey it is alleged Sweeney induced Chris Burns to part with €600 for painting and power washing.

He is also charged with stealing property belonging to Margaret Lynott at Parke, Kilglass on January 9 th, 2020.

The final charge alleges Sweeney took a deposit of €500 for painting and power washing and did not return.

Two further charges before the court in relation to Sweeney were for the alleged theft of diesel.

On December 11 th last it is alleged Sweeney stole diesel from Feehily’s and a second charge for stealing diesel from Feeney’s on December 9 th last.

The court was told it is alleged Sweeney went to houses across Sligo promising to undertake home improvement works but failed to do the jobs.

The court was told €1,000 bail was furnished to the court by Sweeney.

Setting out bail conditions, Judge Kevin Kilrane said Sweeney is to reside at his address and notify gardaí of any change in address.

He is to have no contact with any parties involved.

The matter was put back to April 16 th next.