This article is from page 16 of the 2014-02-11 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
TWO men charged in connection with the alleged theft of items from a historic lakeside mansion in Killaloe are to be sent forward for trial, a court has heard.
At Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Inspector Tom Kennedy said he expects the books of evidence to be ready for service on Jeffrey Lee (41) and Declan Browne (25) by the end of the month.
Mr Lee, with an address at Cosgrave Park, Moyross, Limerick, is charged with entering Tinarana House as a trespasser on dates between August 17 and September 24, 2013 and committing theft therein.
Defence solicitor Tara Godfrey told the court the 42-day time period in which the State is required to serve the book of evidence had elapsed.
She said the State were now on day 50. Insp Kennedy the book of evidence was not yet ready.
He told the court Mr Lee’s case is linked to that of Declan Browne. He said Mr Browne had not been charged at the same time as Mr Lee.
He said the State solicitor is currently finalizing the books of evidence in respect of both accused.
He sought a further adjournment. Ms Godfrey said she would consent to the case being adjourned to February 26.
Insp Kennedy told Judge William Early he was confident the books would be ready by the end of the month.
Judge Early refused a defence application to mark the case peremptory against the State – meaning the matter could be struck out if the book of evidence is not ready by February 26.
However Judge Early told the legal teams he had marked “time running” on the file.
Declan Browne, (25), with an address at Cnoc an Cluain, Ballina, Tipperary, also appeared before Ennis District Court on Wednesday.
Mr Browne is charged with handling stolen property – antique chandeliers, candelabra, light fittings, antique bathroom fittings, copper piping and cylinder – at Clear Circle Metals, Ballysimon Road, Limerick on September 13, 2013.
Insp Kennedy said the case would be proceeding to trial on indictment.
Ms Godfrey said Mr Browne appears to be a co-accused of Mr Lee. Mr Browne’s case was also adjourned to February 26.
Both accused were remanded on continuing bail.