Dubliner allegedly caught with €20k worth of heroin in Cork faces trial

Rhys McGuire is accused of being in possession of Diamorphine (heroin) on Rochestown Road, Cork, and having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply to others. File picture

A 31-year-old Dubliner who was allegedly caught with a stash of more than €20,000 worth of heroin on Rochestown Road in Cork almost a year ago was told on Tuesday that he is to be put on trial by judge and jury.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed that the case brought by Detective Garda Mike Walsh against Rhys McGuire should be dealt with by indictment at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

The accused man also faces a money-laundering charge where it is alleged that he had €1,085 cash, knowing or being reckless as to whether it was the proceeds of criminal conduct.

Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case to April 20 so that a book of evidence can be prepared.

Rhys McGuire of Iveagh Hostel, Bride Road, Dublin 8, is accused of being in possession of Diamorphine (heroin) on Rochestown Road, Cork, and having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply to others.

The drugs and money-laundering charges relate to April 12, 2023.

Bail conditions previously imposed on the accused require him to reside at Iveagh Hostel, Dublin, keep a curfew between 10pm and 6am, surrender his passport, not apply for any new travel documentation, provide investigating gardaí with a contact number and have his phone charged and be contactable at all times. 

He also has to sign on at Kevin Street garda station on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and stay out of Cork City except for legal and medical appointments.

He was represented by barrister William Bulman for the brief hearing.