Kildare man who won't sign bond further held in custody
Photo for illustrative purposes only
A MAN who has been in detention for four weeks for refusing to sign a bail bond in relation to a number of minor shoplifting and public order offences may yet see liberty this week when his is returned before Judge Desmond Zaidan’s jurisdiction.
Glen Egan (47) of St Corban’s Avenue in Naas was due to appear by video link in the district court last week to have his case progressed.
Mr Egan is facing 14 charges, mainly public disorder and drunkenness at various locations around Naas between 15 June and 20 July, as well as the theft of €10 worth of chocolate from Butlers on South Main St, and a €5 ready meal from SuperValu on the Fairgreen.
However, after waiting for a few minutes before an empty screen, Judge Nicola Jane Andrews called for the prison officers to appear.
“Sorry judge, but he is in hospital,” said one of the officers.
At his last appearance two weeks before, Mr Egan had to be helped to the chair in the prison’s video suite by two officers, refused to speak, and had Judge Catherine Hayden order a psychiatric report into his mental health.
“This is an unusual case, judge,” said barrister Sean Egan, assisting. “Your colleague on the last date sought an update.
“His is a very unusual presentation, as he is only in custody because he won’t sign a bail bond,” the barrister revealed.
“I note here that Judge Hayden ordered a psychiatric assessment,” said Judge Andrews.
“Ms Jacqui McManus had him presented in Athy, and she attempted to get instructions, but to no avail,” explained the barrister. “These are very minor theft charges, chocolate bars eaten in the store, ready meals eaten in the store.
“But what raises most concern is an individual on minor charges being detained by the court, and this is a cause of concern. The other path chosen is that of Judge Zaidan, and that is to strike out the charges because the time spent in detention is far longer than the likely sentences that would be handed down for these charges.”
“Is Judge Zaidan back next Wednesday?” asked Judge Andrews.
“Yes, judge,” confirmed prosecuting officer Sergeant Mary Meade.
So Judge Andrews remanded Mr Egan back into custody for just another six days to reappear on Judge Zaidan’s first court list this week.
