Further allegations have been brought against two Kerry individuals implicated in the most significant crystal meth confiscation in the nation’s history. James Leen, 41, and Nathan McDonnell, 44, were both present at Tralee District Court on Wednesday morning, where they faced new accusations of managing a criminal group within the nation.
Detective Sergeant Dave Howard testified that he apprehended, brought charges against and issued a caution to Mr. Leen at 9:35 prior to the court convening in Tralee. There were three additional allegations against him to which he remained silent post-caution, as per Det. Sgt. Howard.
Sergeant Chris Manton, the court reporter, sought their continued detention and scheduled a video conference for July 24th. The fresh allegations will be incorporated into evidence for an indictment trial, Sgt Manton assured Judge David Waters.
The evidence is expected to be prepared by July 30th, he also mentioned in the court.
Pat Mann, Leen’s legal representative, insisted that the state strictly abide by the July 30th deadline for evidence. Since one of the allegations falls outside the jurisdiction of the District Court, there was no request for bail, clarified the lawyer.
Mr. Leen, resident of Pilgrim Hill, Kilmorna, Listowel, Co Kerry, had earlier also been accused of bringing in Methylamphetamine worth €13,000 or more – an offence under section 15B of the Misuse of Drugs Act, and keeping the narcotics at Ballyseedy.
Judge David Waters mandated that he remain imprisoned and scheduled his next appearance via video link for the following week.
Meanwhile, McDonnell stands accused of being aware of a criminal group and enabling a serious offence committed by said group pertaining to the importation, trade and supply of restricted substances.
Mr McDonnell is currently facing several accusations. Among these is the allegation that he imported methylamphetamine, a drug currently valued at over €13,000, into Ringaskiddy, Cork Port on 16th October 2023. Moreover, between 27th October 2023 and 12th February 2024, he is accused of possessing and intending to distribute the same drug at Ballyseedy Garden Centre in Tralee. An additional possession charge from the same dates at Ballyseedy is also part of the case against him.
Det Sgt Tommy Griffin from Listowel Garda station stated that he personally arrested Mr McDonnell this morning, presenting him with a copy of every charge. Post-warning, Mr McDonnell remained silent.
Currently, Mr McDonnell is being held in custody pending a hearing on 24th July.