A MAN has appeared in court charged with murder in Killarney, Co Kerry. Shane O'Riordan (18), Arbutus Grove, was brought in custody to Killarney courthouse yesterday morning.
In court, evidence was given of arrest, charge and caution earlier at the New Road Garda station. When asked to respond to the charge, of murdering James Brazier (30) Pinewood Estate on April 15th, 2007, Mr O'Riordan replied: "No comment".
A previous charge of assault causing serious harm to Mr Brazier on the date in question was withdrawn.
The State would strenuously oppose any bail applications, the court was told. ( Mr O'Riordan had breached bail conditions imposed in relation to the Brazier case.)
However, his solicitor, Pádraig O'Connell, stressed he would be seeking bail in the High Court. "The tender years of the accused and the fact he returned voluntarily have to be taken into account," Mr O'Connell said.
The court also heard that Mr O'Riordan was arrested the previous night and brought into custody, where he was charged with assault causing harm to Graham Geasley at Chapel Lane, on December 16th, 2006.
When charged and cautioned, he made no reply. Mr Geasley had suffered severe head and brain injuries and the DPP would not permit the matter to be dealt with in the District Court.
Mr O'Connell said his client would be contesting the section 3 charge when it came before the Circuit Criminal Court in Tralee.
Judge James O'Connor remanded Mr O'Riordan in custody on both matters to appear at Tralee District Court on April 9th.
Meanwhile a second man is due to be brought before Kenmare District Court today and is expected to be charged in relation to the death of Mr Brazier.