Man smashed windscreen of patrol car and knocked fire alarm off wall at Cork garda station, court told

A 38-YEAR-old man smashed the windscreen of a patrol car outside a garda station before going into the building and knocking the fire alarm off the wall.

And when searched, it was alleged that he had a tin of lighter fluid in his possession.

These were the allegations made in the case against Roy Leahy, of 60, Ardcullen, Hollyhill, Cork, at Cork District Court.

The alleged facts were outlined by Sergeant Dave Delea so that Judge Mary Dorgan could decide whether or not she would accept jurisdiction for the case at district court level. In the event, she decided that it would be a suitable case for the district court.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer applied for a copy of the prosecution statements and evidence to be sent to the defence. Judge Dorgan adjourned the case until June 13 to allow that to happen and remanded the accused in custody in the meantime.

Sgt Delea stated that on April 26 at Gurranabraher garda station the accused went into the car park and damaged the windscreen of a patrol car. It was further alleged that he then went into the garda station and damaged the fire alarm attached to the wall.

Sgt Delea said when the accused was searched, he allegedly had a tin of lighter fuel.

Judge Dorgan asked by way of clarification if it was alleged that any attempt was made to use the lighter fluid on the day. Sgt Delea said no such attempt was made.

The defendant faces two criminal damage charges and one of having under his control a tin of lighter fluid, intending without lawful excuse to use it to damage property.