A Clare man charged with following and then robbing a trader during last year’s Continental Christmas Market was remanded in custody when he appeared at Galway District Court last week.
Jamie Clune (34 ) with an address at 4 Bridge View, Roslevan, Ennis, Co Clare, was brought before Judge Mary Fahy charged with allegedly robbing a man of €360 in cash at Donoghue Terrace, Woodquay, on November 21, 2010, contrary to Section 14 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud ) Act, and for failing to appear in court on November 9, 2011.
Garda Thomas Doyle gave evidence of arresting Clune on the morning of the court sitting and charging him at Ennis Garda Station.
When defence solicitor Sean Action made an application for bail, Garda Doyle objected to bail being granted because of the serious nature of the charge. He added that it is alleged a German trader had finished up at the Christmas market in Eyre Square and had been followed before being robbed. The court also heard that there were a high number of bench warrants in existence for the accused man.
Mr Acton said that the gardai were familiar with his client, that they know where he resides at his family home, and that he has significant health, including epilepsy, and alcohol difficulties. He added that Clune is willing to abide by any conditions.
However, after consideration Judge Fahy refused bail. Inspector Sean Glynn then informed the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions has asked for the matter to be dealt with summarily in the District Court on a plea of guilty only.
Judge Fahy noted the DPP directions and remanded Clune in custody. Clune was due to appear at Harristown District Court last Friday, November 25. Legal aid was also granted.
