Ex-garda on trial for corruption and gun charges

A former garda will stand trial next July accused of corruption and illegally possessing a shotgun.

Daniel Tarrant, aged 50, of Doon, Kiskeam, Mallow, Co Cork, indicated at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that he will plead not guilty to the charges. His co-accused Helena Bruton, aged 51, of Cluain Ri, Ashbourne, Co Meath, will stand trial alongside him on related charges of obtaining confidential information.

Mr Tarrant’s defence counsel asked for a trial date in July as he is currently taking a college course which concludes in May.

Judge Martin Nolan remanded both accused on continuing bail until Jun 7, when a pre-trial hearing will take place. The trial is scheduled for Jul 1.

Mr Tarrant faces three allegations. The first is that on Oct 9, 2009, at Cluain Ri, Ashbourne, he was in possession of a single-barrel shotgun without the proper firearms certificate.

He also faces an allegation that on Jul 16, 2009, at Finglas Garda Station, he did an act in relation to his office or position for the purpose of corruptly obtaining a gift, consideration or advantage for himself or another person.

The third charge alleges that on a date unknown between Nov 9, 2008, and May 15, 2009, he disclosed personal data processed by him without the prior authority of the data controller.

Ms Bruton faces a charge that on Jul 16, 2009, at Finglas station, she obtained access to personal data or obtained access to information constituting such data, without the prior authority of the data controller and that she disclosed the data or information to another person.