Man charged with cocaine possession after major Dublin drug seizure

Tom Tuite

A Dublin man charged with possession of cocaine in connection with a major drug seizure has been remanded in custody with consent to €15,000 bail.

Derek Harcourt, 48, of Thomond Road, Ballyfermot, appeared at Dublin District Court on Thursday evening.

He is charged with offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act for unlawful possession of cocaine and possessing cocaine for the purpose of sale or supply, at two locations, his home address, and at Thomond Road on October 7th.

Sundrive Road station Garda Sergeant Barry Hanrahan told the court that the accused made no reply when charged.

Defence solicitor Brian Keenan confirmed strict bail terms had been agreed with gardaí.

Judge Binchy noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions' directions were not yet available. Sergeant Hanrahan explained that the drugs needed to be first sent to Forensic Science Ireland, and it would take several weeks before a certificate of analysis was issued.

Judge Binchy set conditions sought by gardaí, in Mr Harcourt’s bond of €10,000, and a €5,000 independent surety needs to be approved before he can be released.

She ordered him to reside at his current address, notify gardaí of any change, sign on daily at his local garda station, and remain in the State.

He has already surrendered his passport and phone. The judge also ordered him to remain of sober habits, provide a new phone number within 48 hours of taking up bail, and observe an 11 pm – 6 am curfew.

Mr Harcourt did not address the court and has yet to indicate a plea.

Legal aid was granted after Mr Keenan explained his client was on a disability allowance.

The court heard that during his Garda detention, he had to be brought to St James’s Hospital for an assessment.

Judge Binchy directed that he receive medical attention and remanded him in prison with consent to bail under the terms outlined.

He will face his next hearing at Cloverhill District Court on October 16th.