TWO MEN appeared in court yesterday on charges arising from a raid at the home of a Co Galway businessman earlier this week.
Thomas Freeman (53), Deansrath Grove, Clondalkin, Co Dublin, and Gregory Kelly (24), Sandyhill Gardens, Ballymun, Dublin, are both charged with the false imprisonment of Julien and Emma Flynn at their home in Lackagh, Claregalway, on Sunday night last, February 15th, and with the robbery of €3,000 cash from Mr Flynn on the same night.
Garda Alan Keane, of Oranmore Garda station, told Galway District Court he put the charges to Mr Freeman at Galway Garda station last Tuesday morning and Mr Freeman replied “no comment”.
Garda Bernice Mulderrig gave evidence of arresting Gregory Kelly at Galway Garda station on Tuesday morning also. He replied “I understand” to the robbery charge and made no reply to the false imprisonment charges.
Insp Ernie White applied to have both accused remanded in custody to Harristown District Court tomorrow. Solicitors representing both accused said they were consenting to the remands.
Judge Mary Fahy remanded both accused in custody to appear before Harristown District Court tomorrow at 10.30am.
Judge Fahy granted free legal aid to both men, stating the charges were serious and both were unemployed. Mr Freeman, who had bruising and scratches to his forehead, covered his face with his right hand during the brief hearing. Solicitor Adrian Mac Lynn said his client Gregory Kelly suffered from depression and asked that he be given medical attention while in custody. Judge Fahy said that was a matter for the authorities.