Cork teenager accused of stealing almost €3,500 worth of vapes in two burglaries

Accused caused damage estimated at €8,210 to door of one shop, court told

Judge said because of the combined value of criminal damage and the stolen property, jurisdiction at district court level was refused.

Vapes were stolen in the course of burglaries of two shops in Cork City and on Monday one teenager allegedly involved in the crimes was told the cases were too serious to be dealt with at district court level.

It was alleged that €2,500 worth of vapes were stolen in one burglary and €920 worth of vapes in another.

18-year-old Nathan O’Callaghan, of 28 Innishmore Square, Ballincollig, Cork, appeared before Cork District Court facing charges including two counts of burglary.

Sergeant John Kelleher outlined the allegations in the case so Judge Mary Dorgan could decide on whether or not she would accept jurisdiction to deal with the cases.

Sgt Kelleher said, “On September 1, 2023, there was a burglary at Unity Store, Lower Glanmire Road, Cork, at approximately 3am.

“Twenty boxes of vapes, valued €920 were stolen. The three men involved were observed by an off-duty member of An Garda Síochána as they fled the scene.

“It is alleged that Nathan O’Callaghan was identified on CCTV from the scene.

“On September 4, 2023, a burglary occurred at Spar, Douglas Street, Cork, at approximately 3.15am. The front door was forced by three males who proceeded to steal vapes valued at €2,500, cigarettes valued €495 and cigars valued €62.

“It is alleged that these items were found in the possession of Nathan O’Callagahan, along with a knife when he was stopped a short distance from the scene.

“The valuation for damage to the front door was estimated at €8,210.” 

Judge Dorgan said because of the combined value of criminal damage and the stolen property, jurisdiction was refused.

Sgt Kelleher said further directions would now have to be obtained from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Judge Dorgan adjourned the case until May 13 for that purpose, with the accused on bail. The accused was represented by solicitor Eddie Burke.