Drugs accused, 59, ordered to stay away from street

A 59-year-old man was charged yesterday with having cannabis for sale or supply on Barrack St in Cork City, and is required to stay away from the street and surrounding streets as a condition of his bail.

Cornelius Heaphy was arrested by Garda Brian Barron and charged with possession of cannabis resin and having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply.

Inspector Bill Duane said the DPP directed that the case could be dealt with at Cork District Court.

Judge Leo Malone asked for an outline of the allegations so that he could decide on whether to accept jurisdiction or not.

Garda Barron said gardaí obtained a warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act to search a house at 40 Barrack St, on September 20, 2015.

It was alleged that cannabis resin with a street value of €800 was seized, along with €650 in cash.

Judge Malone said he would accept jurisdiction to deal with the case at Cork District Court rather than having the case go forward for trial by judge and jury.

Bail conditions required Mr Heaphy to reside at 16 Sunvalley Court, Cork; sign in daily at Gurranbraher Garda Station; abide by a curfew to be home from 10pm each night until 8am; and to remain away from Barrack St and surrounding streets.

On the application of Inspector Duane, Judge Malone adjourned the case for four weeks.

Diarmuid Kelleher, solicitor, was appointed to represent Mr Heaphy on free legal aid.