Cork man accused of lunging into hallway armed with knife

The district judge said that, based on the allegations, it was too serious a case for the district court. File picture: Larry Cummins

A middle-aged Cork man lunged into the hallway of a house while carrying a knife, it has been alleged. 

The district judge said that, based on those allegations, it was too serious a case for the district court.

Garda Brian McCarthy charged Richard Ryan, aged 52, of 1 Hollyville, Hollyhill, Cork, with burglary at around 1am on August 8.

The charge states that on that date at a house at Churchfield Gardens, Churchfield, Cork, Mr Ryan entered a building as a trespasser to commit an arrestable offence, namely assault causing harm.

While the alleged assault is referenced in the burglary count, there is no separate charge of assault.

Judge David Waters asked for some details of the alleged offence so that he could decide on the issue of jurisdiction.

Sergeant John Dineen said it was alleged that the defendant banged on the front door of the house and when it was opened, he lunged into the hallway armed with a knife.

After reference was made to the possibility of further charges being brought, defence solicitor Diane Hallahan said: “We are here to meet what he is charged with and not what he is going to be charged with.” 

On the basis of the allegations in the burglary charge, Judge Waters said he was refusing jurisdiction.

He adjourned the case to allow time for preparation and service of a book of evidence.

It is anticipated that there will be an opportunity for the defendant to enter a signed plea of guilty if he is not contesting the case.