Court awaits DPP directions in case of man accused of smashing up Cork probation office

The man is charged with damaging an interview room at the probation service, a table, chair, computer monitor, door and sockets

Judge John King agreed to adjourn the case until September 23. File picture: Larry Cummins

A 29-year-old man accused of causing criminal damage to an interview room at the probation service main offices in Cork City had the case against him adjourned until September for DPP directions.

Thomas Shinnick who lives at an apartment at Centenary House, Charleville, County Cork, appeared at Cork District Court on the charge of causing criminal damage.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Judge John King agreed to adjourn the case until September 23. The accused was represented by solicitor Diarmuid Kelleher.

The charge sheet stated that: “On October 3 at the Probation Service, St. Nicholas Church, Cove Street, Cork, he did without lawful excuse damage property, namely an interview room at the probation service, a table, chair, computer monitor, door and sockets, intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged.” 

Garda Stephen Cleary cautioned Thomas Shinnick when originally charged and Mr Shinnick replied: “No comment.” Bail conditions require him to stay out of Cork city centre, stay away from all probation service offices, refrain from contact with any members of the probation service and sign on twice a week at Mallow garda station.