In an altercation in broad sunlight related to a previous supposed petrol bomb attack in Co Carlow, two gentlemen have been brought before the courts on charges of weapon offences, including the possession of a pair of knives and a slash hook. Accused of having two knives, one in each hand, William Delaney (39), resident of Phelim Crescent, Tullow, Co Carlow, and Brendan Keating (31), a denizen of New Oak Estate, Carlow, charged with the possession of a slash hook, had their court hearings in Dublin District Court on the 15th of August, 2024.
These individuals were presented to Judge Cephas Power on Friday and are awaiting their next hearing on Tuesday at the Carlow District Court, detained in the interim. On the condition of a €400 individual bond, Mr Delaney was provisionally granted bail and is now kept in custody until a €1,000 independent surety is ratified. Unfortunately, Mr Keating was denied bail.
Amid independent bail hearings, Garda John Moulton emphasised the gravity of the case, cautioning that the involved parties had demonstrated unpredictable behaviour and posed a considerable threat to public safety by potentially repeating homologous transgressions.
According to Garda Moulton, the incident occurred at approximately 4:30 pm on the said date, when officers arrived at New Oak Estate just as the two men were about to get into a physical dispute. The officer claimed Mr Keating was observed wielding a slash hook featuring a 3ft handle and a sharp, curved blade. He further claimed that upon his arrival, Mr Delaney, who was approaching Mr Keating with a knife in each hand, immediately discarded his weapons.
In addressing the authorities later, Mr Delaney challenged, “Sure, what would you do when a petrol bomb is thrown at your house with kids in it?” The Judge took note of Mr Keating’s outright denial of any involvement in the prior alleged petrol bomb attack. However, Garda Moulton voiced his serious worries regarding the entire incident.
In representation of Mr Delaney, a single father, Kevin McCrave BL assured that his client was prepared to comply with any bail conditions laid out. Similarly, Garrett Casey BL, spoke for Mr Keating, and reiterated that his client too would respect court imposed rules.
The judge in the case took note of the fact that both individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty. The defence attorneys highlighted that the case is likely to be escalated to a higher court, which could cause a delay in the trial process.
As it stands, the Gardaí still need to receive guidance from the Director of Public Prosecutions. The two implicated individuals, who have not yet submitted a plea, have been granted legal aid.