Man refused bail over burglary at family home

Bail has been refused to a Corkman charged in relation to false imprisonment and aggravated burglary at a family home in Co Limerick, last week.

The charges relate to an alleged incident at the Garvey family home at Sunville House, Pallasgreen on Monday week last.

Christopher Stokes, aged 40, of St Anthony’s Park, Knocknaheeny, made no reply when the charges were put to him by gardaí, Limerick District Court heard.

Detective Garda Tony Grey of Bruff Garda Station applied to have Mr Stokes remanded in custody.

Objecting to bail, Det Garda Grey outlined concerns as to whether Mr Stokes, if given bail, would turn up in court, would interfere with witnesses, or would be involved in criminal activities.

The officer referred to an incident on Apr 16 when four men, allegedly armed with a shotgun, a sledgehammer and a baseball bat entered Sunville House.

It had been alleged that during the course of a raid, the owner of the property was handcuffed and a girl had her hands bound.

Ted McCarthy, for Mr Stokes, said the accused lived within walking distance of Gurranabraher Garda Station where he could sign on.

Judge Eamon O’Brien refused bail and remanded Stokes in custody to the same court on May 1.