Evidence ends in trial of man accused of possessing stolen antique books

The trial of a man accused of possessing 67 allegedly stolen antique books, including an extremely rare King James Bible, has finished in evidence.

The jury is due to begin deliberations on Monday following speeches from Judge Petria O’Donnell and counsel for both the prosecution and defence.

Andrew Shannon (51) is accused of illegally handling the books, which had originated in the library of Carton House in Kildare.

Carton House is the historical family seat of the FitzGerald family.

The books, including a 1660 edition of the King James Bible of which only six exist, allegedly went missing after they were put in storage during the restoration of the country house.

Gardaí­ say they were later found in Mr Shannon’s home during a search. Mr Shannon told investigators that he had bought the books at a fair for about IR£300 and was using them as ornaments to decorate his house.

Mr Shannon of Willans Way, Ongar, Dublin pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the books at his home while knowing or being reckless as to whether they were stolen on March 3rd, 2007.