Galway men named over alleged burglary with firearm
A trial date may be set next month for two men charged with aggravated burglary in East Galway almost two years ago
Paul O'Connor (49) and Damien O'Connor (47), both with an address at 34 Cúlán Eiscir Riada, Dunlo, Ballinasloe, appeared at Galway Circuit Court where their cases were both adjourned to December 1.
The court heard a trial date is required.
They are each charged that on December 27, 2024 at Garbally Demense, Ballinasloe, they committed burglary at a time when they had with them a firearm, to wit, a Glock pistol or a sawn-off shotgun, contrary to section 13 of the Theft and Fraud Offences Act.
The men are also each charged with three offences contrary to section 27 of the Firearms Act 1964, as amended.
Those charges allege unlawful possession or control of a Glock pistol; a side-by-side shotgun: 18 rounds of 9mm Luger calibre ammunition and one round of 9mm Makarov calibre ammunition, at River Village, Athlone, County Roscommon on January 8, 2025.
Ferdia Breathnach BL told the court solicitors from the office of Gearoid Geraghty and Co. will be coming on record for the accused and legal aid certificates could issue in their names.
Judge Brian O'Callaghan also granted Mr Breathnach's applications for second counsel in both cases given the serious nature of the charges.
Damien O'Connor was remanded on bail to appear again on December 1 when the case is due to be mentioned.
Paul O'Connor was remanded in custody to also appear on December 1.
Mr Brethnach said an early trial date is being sought and in the case of Paul O'Connor, a bail application may be made at a later date.
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