Man accused of robbing pensioner granted bail

Tom Tuite

A Dublin man accused of mugging an 88-year-old pensioner who was injured and robbed as he brought savings to his local credit union has been granted bail.

Robert McDonnell, 57, from Greek Street, Dublin 7, was charged with robbery of €500 from the elderly man at Manor Street, Dublin 7, on February 24th.

Garda Aisling Daly objected to bail due witness interference concerns and said the accused and the complainant used the same credit union.

It was alleged the victim was bringing his money to the branch when the incident occurred and that there was CCTV evidence.

Garda Daly told Dublin District Court that the elderly man was assaulted and suffered “fractures to his face” and was afraid to run into the accused. He also feared his daily routine was known.

None of the cash has been recovered.

The complainant did not have to attend the hearing Wednesday. His solicitor told the court he maintained his innocence and did not know the complainant.

The defence submitted that there had been no allegation of intimidation in the six and a half months incident before his client was charged.

The court heard Mr McDonnell agreed to obey bail conditions and could live in a different area.

Judge Finan noted that there had been no witness interference since the incident and held the evidence was insufficient to refuse bail to the accused, who had the presumption of innocence.

She ordered him to stay out of Dublin 7, reside at an address in Crumlin, have no contact with the complainant and stay away from his credit union.

Bail was set in his bond of €200 before he was released and ordered to appear again in November. The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed trial on indictment in the Circuit Court, which has wider sentencing powers.

A book of evidence must be served on the accused before being sent forward for trial. Legal aid was granted.