A man accused of stealing a pregnancy test kit, smashing a car window, and assaulting a garda shortly after being released from a two-year jail sentence, was given a highly conditional bail in the District Court this week (November 20 ).
Inspector Nicholas Farrell told how Alan McCarthy (25 ), with an address on Grattan Row, Athlone was to be charged with the three offences committed between October 11 and 23.
However, as this was McCarthy’s first appearance on these matters no plea was entered at this point, and his solicitor Mr Tony McLynn made an application for statements from the gardaí.
Noting McCarthy had a total social welfare income of €312 per week, Judge Seamus Hughes enquired how much he could save each week to contribute towards his legal fees.
“Nothing,” said McCarthy, who said he was living with his partner and their child.
“You had plenty of money for drink,” said the judge.
“I don’t drink,” said McCarthy.
“You were alleged to have been under some form of intoxication,” said the judge, reading from the charge sheets.
“I don’t do drugs,” said McCarthy.
Inspector Farrell told the court the State was amenable to bail, although he wanted McCarthy to sign on at Athlone Garda Station three times a week, and remain drug and alcohol free.
“What about a curfew?” asked the judge.
“I don’t think so. He’s out of the age range for that,” said the inspector.
“Any further offences and I’ll send you to prison,” warned the judge as he remanded McCarthy on continuing bail until January 15.
McCarthy was released from jail in September after receiving a 24-month sentence in April 2012.
