Man caught outside child's open window in Cork charged with burglary

The accused told the court that he was not involved in a serious type of crime on August 25 and that he was someone who would only carry out a petty theft to pay for his drug addiction

The case was adjourned for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. File picture: Larry Cummins

A stranger seen standing outside an open window where a child slept inside was charged with burglary and has been remanded in continuing custody.

37-year-old Lee Cronin with an address at an apartment at Douglas West, Douglas, Cork, was remanded in custody until October 14. 

Lee Cronin spoke up to say that he was not involved in a serious type of crime on August 25 and that he was someone who would only carry out a petty theft to pay for his drug addiction.

Sergeant David Fleming said no directions were available from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Judge David Waters adjourned the case for directions.

Sergeant Aisling Murphy alleged during an earlier bail objection at Cork District Court: “Lee Cronin was identified on CCTV entering the curtilage of 5a Galway’s lane, Douglas West on the morning of August 25.

“It is alleged that he tried to enter the two vehicles in the driveway and then approached the house and put his hand inside the window to open the window of the house. There was a very young girl asleep in the room and he attempted to get in.” 

Sgt Murphy added that it occurred at 7am while the children stayed sleeping, and that the mother of this girl entered the room and began to shout. She said that Lee Cronin ran from the property on seeing the owners of the house.

Eddie Burke, solicitor, represented the accused.