Teen charged with dealing cocaine

A 17-year-old Dublin boy has been granted conditional bail after he was charged with cocaine dealing.

He was brought before the Children's Court today accused of unlawfully possessing cocaine and possession for sale or supply, at Cameron Street in Dublin 8, on March 29 last.

The boy, who was aged 16 at the time of the alleged seizure, made “no reply” when charged Detective Garda Nicola Lowry told Judge Hugh O'Donnell.

The value of the drugs was not stated however Det-Gda Lowry said the DPP had recommended “trial on indictment” meaning the case should be sent to the Circuit Court which has wider sentencing powers.

She said there was an objection to bail due to the “seriousness of the offences.” However, she agreed with defence solicitor Gareth Noble that bail subject to conditions, including a curfew, was acceptable.

Judge O'Donnell decided to grant bail and ordered the north Dublin teen to reside at his home address and notify gardaí of any change, remain there from 10pm to 7am, and to sign on daily at his local garda station.

The defence said that despite the DPP's direction submissions would be made under section 75 of the Children Act to plead for the case to be kept in the jurisdiction of the Children's Court.

This section of the legislation also sets out grounds where the court can retain jurisdiction for a case involving serious allegations, by taking into consideration the age and level of maturity of a juvenile defendant - a person under the age of 18.

The out of work teen, who was accompanied to his case by his mother, was granted legal aid and remanded to appear again next month.

Judge O'Donnell also made an order for disclosure of the prosecution's evidence to the teen's solicitor.