Corkman accused of three burglaries, including at funeral home, refused bail

Daniel Jackson is also charged with possession of a knife

The judge refused bail to Daniel Jackson and adjourned the case until May 23. File picture: Larry Cummins

A funeral home was burgled by a 34-year-old man who also carried out burglaries at two neighbouring properties, it was alleged on Wednesday when gardaí objected to his bail application.

Daniel Jackson said in Cork District Court by video link from prison: “I have had a permanent bed in Simon for past three months. I would keep any bail conditions whatsoever."

Judge Mary Dorgan said: “He is charged with three counts of burglary and one count of possession of a knife. On the basis of the seriousness of the charges and the nature of evidence in support of the charges it is difficult for Mr Jackson in this case. 

"In addition, the situation is that he was found in possession of a knife and identified on CCTV. I am concerned that he was caught red-handed.” 

The judge then refused bail and adjourned the case until May 23. Sergeant John Kelleher said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Frank Buttimer, solicitor, said the refusal of bail would be appealed to the High Court.

Detective Garda Maurice Hickey outlined the allegations against Daniel Jackson when the 34-year-old allegedly burgled AJ Tyres on Boreenmanna Road at 10.40pm on April 22 and tried to get into three cars parked outside. 

The second alleged offence related to a break-in at Jeremiah O’Connor’s funeral home on Boreenmanna Road about 20 minutes later and then burgling a house at Bellfield Abbey nearby half an hour after that while armed with a knife and confronting two young Spanish men who were living there. 

Det. Garda Hickey’s concern about Daniel Jackson was that he would not attend court if granted bail and would commit further serious offences and is a danger to the community. 

In terms of the risk of danger, the detective pointed to allegations that he produced a knife after one burglary when two Spanish nationals were at their home in Cork.