Ex-Ireland rugby player Brendan Mullin accused of stealing perfume from Brown Thomas

Former international, who won 55 caps for Ireland, is due back before Dublin District Court in July

Brendan Mullin charged over alleged perfume theft from Brown Thomas. File picture: IrishPhotoDesk.ie

Former Irish rugby international Brendan Mullin has been charged with allegedly stealing perfume from Brown Thomas on Dublin's Grafton Street.

The former rugby star, who won 55 caps for Ireland between 1984 and 1995 before moving into financial services, appeared before Judge Treasa Kelly at Dublin District Court on Tuesday.

Garda Nathan Cox, of Pearse Street Garda Station, is prosecuting the case on a single charge under Section 4 of the Theft and Fraud Act.

Mr Mullin, 62, of Albert Lodge, Stillorgan Road, Donnybrook, Dublin 4, is accused of stealing Hermès perfume worth €158 from the department store on May 15 this year.

He had been granted station bail to appear in court on Tuesday, and defence solicitor John O'Doherty confirmed his client was present.

Dressed in a navy sweater, trousers, brown shoes and a green jacket, he sat silently at the back of the courtroom but stood briefly when his name was called.

However, Mr Mullin was not required to give evidence at the procedural hearing.

Court Garda Sergeant Brian Duff clarified the issue of disclosure, telling Judge Kelly that a summary of the prosecution evidence and CCTV footage had been provided to the defence.

Judge Kelly noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions had, “based on a value of €158”, directed summary disposal in the District Court rather than sending the case forward to the Circuit Court, which has wider sentencing powers.

Judge Kelly agreed to retain jurisdiction, meaning the matter will remain before the District Court.

Mr O'Doherty then sought an adjournment to allow his client to consider his plea.

Mr Mullin was remanded on continuing bail to appear again on July 21 to enter a plea or, if he intends to contest the charge, to have a hearing date fixed.

The alleged offence is punishable, on conviction in the District Court, by a maximum sentence of 12 months' imprisonment and a fine of up to €3,000.