Barman at Cork pub confronted by knife-wielding burglar, court told

A BARMAN opening a city centre pub at 7am observed signs of a break-in at the premises and he was then approached by a young man who threatened to cut him open.

These were the allegations made against a man appearing before Cork District Court where Judge Mary Dorgan said she was refusing to accept jurisdiction for the case, which will now proceed to the preparation of a book of evidence and be sent forward to Cork Circuit Criminal Court for hearing.

John O’Mahony, aged 32, of 120 Ardcullen, Hollyhill, Cork, faces charges of entering The Welcome Inn on Parnell Place as a trespasser on March 16, to commit a theft and possession of a knife. He was charged by Sergeant Maurice O’Connor.

Sergeant Aisling Murphy said: “At approximately 7am, a member of staff was preparing for opening of Welcome Inn. As he did, he noticed damage had been caused to a door at the premises and a gate opened. He contacted his boss to inform him of what he had discovered.

“While there the staff member observed a man walk towards the premises, approach the gates and deliver two kicks to them in order to gain entry.

“The staff member apprehended this man and a struggle ensued. It is alleged that the man stated he was in possession of a knife and threatened to cut the staff member open.

“During the struggle a Swiss army style knife fell from his clothing. The suspect admitted stealing a bucket load of coin approximately put at €400.”

Judge Dorgan repeated one particular allegation: “He threatened to cut a staff member open and a knife fell from him.”

On noting that, the judge said: “I am not accepting jurisdiction.”

Frank Buttimer, defence solicitor, said: “I think we are going to need a book of evidence.”

Judge Dorgan adjourned the case to September 24 and remanded the accused on continuing bail.