Man allegedly caught with 'big knife' in Cork city is refused bail

Man tells court he is under threat over disputed drug debt

Daniel Huggins testified that he travelled from Dunmanway to buy cocaine in Cork city.

Walking through Cork city with a knife which was described by ajudge as “one foot long in old money” was a serious matter to be alleged against a man who had taken cocaine and now he has been refused bail.

Garda Stephen Grogan said of Daniel Huggins at Cork District Court: “We have concerns that he was in the city centre with a pretty large knife when he was under the influence of drugs.” 

Defence solicitor Stephen Cotter cross-examined the witness, saying: “He said he was under threat for an alleged €3,000 drug debt which he disputes that he owes the money. But he said he was under threat.” 

Garda Grogan said: “I believe he will continue to commit serious offences if released.” 

Judge Mary Dorgan said, “I think if it is alleged that he is going around town with a knife it is a serious matter.” 

Daniel Huggins testified that he travelled from Dunmanway to buy cocaine in Cork city and that he was homeless in the city. He said he was welcome to live at the family home in Dunmanway if granted bail.

“I am hoping to go back to rehab… (Regarding the knife) It was for my own protection,” Mr Huggins said.

Judge Dorgan said: “Taking into consideration the nature of the knife which is one foot long in old money — it is a big knife. As far as the court is concerned, it is a serious matter to be walking around with a knife that size in Cork city. He indicated he was up in Cork to buy cocaine. I am refusing bail and remanding him in custody until April 30.” 

The charge against him is one of being in possession of a knife at Shandon St, Cork, at 2pm on April 23.