Man appears in court on seven charges including arson in connection with Ballyvolane incident

The garda investigation into a suspected petrol bomb attack at Murphy’s Rock pub in Ballyvolane late on Sunday night resulted in a 32-year-old man being brought before Cork District Court on an arson charge this afternoon.

Detective Garda Kevin Motherway arrested Stephen McCarthy of Bay 10, Spring Lane halting site, Cork, and brought him before the court on seven charges.

The first count states that on Sunday, September 1, at Murphy’s Rock, Ballincollie Road, Dublin Hill, Cork, he committed arson in that he damaged by fire property, namely doors, windows, blinds and exterior and interior paint, intending damage or being reckless as to whether it would be damaged.

Stephen McCarthy was also charged with two counts of having a knife at the same time and place. He is charged with driving without insurance or a driving licence. Further, he was charged with possession of cocaine when searched at Mayfield garda station and having the drug for sale or supply.

Det Garda Motherway indicated that there was an objection to bail being granted to Mr McCarthy.

As the detective was about to outline the grounds for the objection to bail, defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said the defendant was not applying for bail at the moment.

“He is reserving his position with this application. He may make the application on a later occasion. The situation will be a remand in custody for seven days,” Mr Buttimer said.

Judge Mary Dorgan remanded Stephen McCarthy in custody until September 11 when he will appear in by video link from prison. In court today the defendant had signs of recent cuts and abrasions to his face.

Mr Buttimer was appointed to represent him on free legal aid.

Det Garda Motherway said during the brief hearing that when the accused was arrested, charged and cautioned on Tuesday afternoon, September 3, he made no reply to any of the charges.

Because the application for bail did not proceed there was no evidence given in relation to the alleged incident that gave rise to the seven charges.