Sentencing of man guilty of Longford arson causing millions of euro worth of damage adjourned

A Chinese national who pleaded guilty to arson that caused more than an estimated €3 million in damages at Grafton Court in Longford town almost 18 months ago will be sentenced in May.

Guo Zhong Chen (55), of 9 Belvedere Terrace, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, had been due to be sentenced at the current session of Longford Circuit Court, which commenced on Tuesday.

However, Judge Jonathan Dunphy was informed that a psychological report was still outstanding and an assessment needed to be carried out on the defendant.

Mr Chen has admitted the arson at Grafton Court, which took place on July 28, 2024.

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Judge Dunphy extended the legal aid to cover a Mandarin interpreter during the psychological assessment and the case was adjourned until May 19 next at 10.30am for sentencing.

Last October, presiding Judge Kenneth Connolly heard Mr Chen had been described as an 'exceptional' prisoner and he has worked in the kitchen since he entered Castlerea Prison where he teaches other prisoners to cook.

Also read: 'Exceptional' prisoner who teaches other prisoners to cook pleads guilty to €3m Longford arson