A Dublin man accused of firearms and ammunition charges was in unlawful possession of a cache of guns found under a garden shed, the Central Criminal Court heard today.
On the opening day of the trial of Mark Desmond, prosecuting counsel Mr Patrick Gageby SC said three firearms seized at Lally Road Ballyfermot on 17th February 2000 were linked to another shotgun discovered sticking out of a hedge at Nangor Road Clondalkin, Dublin by a passer by.
He said forensic evidence would show a link between that weapon and two discharged shotgun cartridges also discovered during a garda raid at the Lally Road house on 17th February.
Mr Desmond (27) formerly of Lally Road Ballyfermot, has pleaded not guilty to possession of three shotguns and one long rifle with intent to endanger life at Lally Road between October 1st 1999 and February 17th 2000. He also denies possession of a 12 gauge shotgun cartridge with intent to endanger life on the same dates.
The court was told that the weapons were stolen in separate burglaries throughout the country. Counsel said it is the State's case that while Mr Desmond is not suspected of having stolen the weapons, he nevertheless had them in his possession for an unlawful purpose.
Mrs Myra Casey, of Athlone, co Westmeath, told the court that on October 1st 2000 her home was burgled and a gun safe stolen.
The accused, who is defending himself, objected to Mrs Casey's evidence as hearsay. He asked if she had ever been informed by the gardai of any suspects that may have burgled her home. "No" Mrs Casey replied.
When trial judge, Mr Justice Liam McKechnie intervened by asking the accused if he had any further "factual questions" for the witness, the accused replied: "You are playing ducks and drakes with me, My Lord".