Liquidator faces trial for theft of €450,000 from companies

A liquidator is facing trial accused of stealing approximately €450,000 from companies which were in the process of being wound up.

Stephen Cheung (38), with an address at Herberton Drive, Rialto, in Dublin, was charged with 19 counts under the Theft and Fraud Act for offences which are alleged to have occurred between 2009 and 2013.

The insolvency practitioner is accused of theft of various sums from 19 separate companies which had gone into voluntary liquidation.

No plea was entered and he was remanded on bail while prosecutors prepare a book of evidence.

Det Sergeant Paschal Walsh, of the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation, told Dublin District Court that Mr Cheung was arrested by appointment on Wednesday morning.

He was charged with the offences at Kevin Street Garda station and “made no reply” under caution, the court heard.

Det Sergeant Walsh told Judge Anthony Walsh the DPP has directed trial on indictment, meaning the case will be dealt with at the higher level, in the circuit court.

Judge Halpin noted there was no objection to bail and Mr Cheung, who did not address the court, has already surrendered his passport. The court ordered him not to apply for a new one or for any other travel documents.

No other bail conditions were sought and he was remanded on bail in his own bond of €200 to appear again in four weeks when it is expected he will be served with a book of evidence and returned for trial.

Judge Halpin agreed to a defence request to grant free legal aid after noting there was no objection from gardaí.