Kildare man who allegedly stole car while in wheelchair appears in court
Naas General Hospital
A MAN who has been in custody for over two months after he allegedly stole a car – whilst in a wheelchair with a broken leg – pleaded with the judge for a sentence, before acceding to the advice of his counsel.
Edward Stokes (42), with an address at Lerr Avenue, Abbeylands, Castledermot appeared in Naas District Court this week (23 April) by videolink from a remand centre following his arrest on 18 February.
He had been arrested at an address in Saggart, Co Dublin after gardaí tracked the stolen car there, following information given by the rightful owner.
The car was stolen from Naas General Hospital underground car park after Stokes allegedly took the keys from a jacket pocket in a staffroom before going down in the lift, and pressing the bipper on the fob until one car beeped.
All of this was done, apparently, from a wheelchair which he had been given upstairs following his treatment for a broken leg.
He was in court this week for his book of evidence.
However, Sergeant Dave Hanrahan told Judge Desmond Zaidan that as another charge had recently been added he was seeking that this presentation be put back to 5 May to allow for the hew charge be included.
He reminded the judge of the charges: “theft and burglary at Naas General Hospital with a broken leg”.
“I remember this!” said the judge.
“Broken leg, stole keys, pressed the button until a car lit up, then his eyes lit up!”
“I’ve been in prison ever since,” Mr Stokes said on the court screen.
“How’s your leg?” the judge enquired.
“Ah, it’s not too bad,” said Mr Stokes. “but when might I know my sentence, what I’m getting?
“I just want this to be over and done with. I’m genuinely sorry. I just want to plead guilty."
The judge asked was he sure about this.
At this point Mr Stokes's solicitor Tim Kennelly interjected.
“You want to go forward on assigned pleas without seeing the book of evidence?” he pointedly said.
“I need to consult with my client"
The case was adjourned until 5 May.
