Cork man allegedly found with 20 deals of heroin bailed despite objections

The man was allegedly caught with cash and 20 deals of heroin in Cork city centre on Tuesday morning.

A man allegedly caught with cash and 20 deals of heroin in Cork city centre on Tuesday morning was released on bail despite objection from An Garda Síochána who believed he would continue to deal the drug if released.

Mark Corcoran, aged 52 and with an address at a flat at Ivy House, Wellington Terrace, Grattan Hill, Cork, was arrested and brought before Cork District Court where there was an objection to bail being granted to the accused.

Garda Emer McCarthy said the grounds for the objection included the seriousness of the alleged offence.

“I firmly believe he will continue to commit offences of a similar nature if granted bail. I believe he will commit crimes to fund his own habit. He is a drug addict.

“He is charged with being in possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of sale or supply and having it for his own use.

“The evidence is that on December 19, 2023, Garda Vincent McCarthy observed him in a transaction in Daunt Square. Garda McCarthy approached him and Mr Corcoran became nervous. He was searched under the Misuse of Drugs Act and found to have 20 deals of Diamorphine and €685 in cash. It is alleged that he was caught red-handed,” Garda Emer McCarthy said.

Diarmuid Kelleher solicitor challenged any evidence that the accused was a flight risk and other reasons given for the objection to bail. “I say he is well entitled to bail,” Mr Kelleher said.

Judge Marian O’Leary granted bail and remanded the accused on bail until March 27, 2024, to allow time for the Director of Public Prosecutions to give directions in the case.

Bail conditions imposed on Mr Corcoran require him to keep a cufew, to be home each night from 11pm until 7am, abstain from intoxicants, and sign daily at Mayfield garda station.