Man charged with criminal damage to Taoiseach's office warned to stay away from area
A man charged with causing criminal damage to the constituency office of the Taoiseach Micheál Martin in Cork has been ordered to stay away from the area and to refrain from any contact, indirect or direct, with Mr Martin or his staff members.
Thomas Heising of Frankfield Terrace, Summerhill South, Cork city appeared before a sitting of Cork District Court today charged with damaging property on Evergreen Road in Cork on May 27 last. The offence is contrary to Section 2(1) of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.
Sgt Chris Cahill said Mr Heising made no reply when the charge was put to him under caution. Mr Heising (34) was arrested on Saturday and charged with the offence yesterday.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Photo: PA.
News in 90 Seconds - Monday June 23
No objection to bail was made in the case. Certain bail conditions were put in place. Mr Heising was ordered to have no contact, direct or indirect, with the Taoiseach, his staff or any public officials. This includes contacting persons on social media. He also has to stay away from Evergreen Road.
Judge Mary Dorgan also warned the accused not to involve himself in commentary in relation to the case. This includes commentary which may take place on social media platforms.
Defence solicitor Shane Collins Daly said that his client had cooperated fully with gardaí during his garda interview.
Sgt Cahill confirmed that this was the case. Mr Heising was asked if he agreed to abide by the conditions of his bail. He replied 'I am.'
Under the terms of his bail Mr Heising is required to sign on twice weekly at Anglesea Street Garda station in Cork city. He also has to reside at his home in Summerhill South.
Sgt Aisling Murphy applied for a six week remand in the case. Mr Heising was remanded on bail to appear before Cork District Court on July 25 next for DPP directions. Judge Dorgan told him to refrain from using intoxicants in the intervening period.
No details were given as to the particulars of the damage caused to the constituency office.
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