Man to enter pleas in relation to arson attacks on five Cork city stores on the same day

A young man charged with carrying out arson attacks at five stores in Cork city on February 25 last is to appear in court in person next month to enter signed pleas in the case.

Samuel Nunes Neto (24) of no fixed abode first appeared before Cork District Court on February 28th. He was charged with five counts of causing criminal damage by fire three days earlier in Cork city centre. No figures were given in relation to the cost of the damage caused in the incident.

The impacted shops were in the Patrick Street, Half Moon Street, Opera Lane and Cornmarket Street area of Cork city and included outlets of TK Maxx, Superdry, Lifestyle Sports, Next and Boots. 

The damage on the charges related to clothing at Superdry, Next and TK Maxx, the building structure and clothing at Lifestyle Sports, and damage to shelving, perfumes, cosmetics and toiletries at Boots.

Defence solicitor Joe Cuddigan previously told Judge Mary Dorgan that his client had made full admissions while in custody at the Bridewell Garda Station in Cork city. 

Judge Dorgan directed that the accused receive all appropriate medical assistance during his time in custody. A psychiatric report was also requested.

Mr Nunes Neto appeared in Cork District Court by video link today. 

Defence solicitor Diarmuid Kelleher told Judge John King that he was standing in in for Mr Cuddigan. He said that Mr Cuddigan had requested that his client be produced in person at the next court hearing to facilitate the entering of signed pleas in the case.

The DPP previously directed trial on indictment in the case. Mr Nunes Neto was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on the 11th of September next. 

Judge John King directed that the accused attend in person on the next occasion.