RIP Michael J. (Mikey) O'Connor
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07 Sept 2025
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07 Sept 2025
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Guo Zhong Chen (55) of 9 Belvedere Terrace, Mullingar, Westmeath is accused of starting the Grafton Court fire
The man charged in connection with the July 28, 2024 fire in Grafton Court, Longford town, which caused millions of euro of damage, had two additional charges added to his prosecution when he came before last week's sitting of Longford District Court.
Guo Zhong Chen (55), of Belvedere Terrace, Mullingar, had previously been charged with Section 2 criminal damage in relation to the Grafton Court fire. Last Tuesday, October 22, 2024 the defendant had arson and a further criminal damage added to his charges.
The defendant was represented in proceedings by solicitor John Shanley. Detective Garda Orla Geraghty told the court she put the new charges to the defendant on the morning of the court sitting.
Garda Geraghty said Mr Chen replied: “I didn't do that,” and “How do you know it was me,” and “The guy was wearing a hoodie, how do you know it was me,” when the charges were read to him.
Sergeant Mark Mahon said the prosecution was seeking to have the defendant remanded in custody to appear before Harristown District Court, the following Friday.
Mr Shanley indicated the defence would not make a bail application and said he wished to take up the disclosure.
The solicitor said his client had difficulty reading, even in his own language. Mr Shanley requested an order for an audio recording of the file against Mr Chen. The solicitor said there would be no cost to the State for the audio copy of the material, it was just to facilitate Mr Chen while he was in custody.
The court was told it was anticipated that a book of evidence would be available before the November sitting of Longford District Court.
When the matter came before Judge Vincent Dean in Harristown on Friday Mr Chen was further remanded in custody to appear before Harristown District Court by video link on November 8.
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