Man to stand trial over threat to kill man in Longford town

Patrick Nevin (27) 1 Knockloughlin, Ballinalee, Road, Longford was brought before a sitting of Longford District Court last Tuesday charged with an incident at Market Square, Longford on March 27 2023.

Garda John Hanley gave evidence of having arrested Mr Nevin and charging him prior to last week’s court sitting.
He said the accused made no reply after caution when the charge was put to him.

A book of evidence was served on Mr Nevin soon afterwards with Garda Phil Weafer providing the details.

The two charges allege Mr Nevin threatened to kill or cause serious harm to a man while also robbing the victim of an Apple iPhone valued at €200.

Sgt Mark Mahon applied for Mr Nevin to be sent forward for trial at last Tuesday’s sitting of Longford Circuit Criminal Court.

Defence solicitor Bríd Mimnagh said the court had previously dealt with the issue of bail and had ruled against Mr Nevin.

She said she had been instructed by her client to apply for bail as more of a box ticking exercise than anything else, ahead of an anticipated application to the High Court.

“You dealt with this man previously and refused him bail and he wants to go for High Court bail,” she told Judge Bernadette Owens.

“I formally have to make an application and if you refuse, he will go forward for High Court bail.”

Ms Mimnagh also spoke of how Mr Nevin would be pleading “absolutely not guilty” in relation to the new charge before the court.

Judge Owens refused bail and sent Mr Nevin forward to the Circuit Criminal Court.

He was also given an alibi warning, meaning he has 14 days to notify the state solicitor’s office if he intends to rely on an alibi during the course of his trial.

Free legal aid was also given, together with certification for a junior counsel.

A separate section 2 assault charge was, meanwhile, adjourned to June 20 next, when it is expected Mr Nevin will either plead guilty or seek a hearing date.