The man accused of arson by petrol bomb attack at Murphy’s Rock pub in Ballyvolane at a time when up to 50 patrons and staff were visibly present inside applied on Tuesday to be released on bail.
Detective Garda Kevin Motherway objected to bail being granted to Stephen McCarthy of Bay 10, Spring Lane halting site, Cork, at Cork District Court.
He faces a number of charges including that on Sunday, September 1, at Murphy’s Rock, Ballincollie Road, Dublin Hill, Cork, he committed arson in that he damaged by fire property, namely doors, windows, blinds and exterior and interior paint, intending damage or being reckless as to whether it would be damaged.
Stephen McCarthy is also charged with two counts of having a weapon at the same time and place.
Det. Garda Motherway indicated that there was an objection to bail being granted to Mr McCarthy. Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said the defendant did not initially apply for bail a month ago but was making that application now.
Mr Buttimer argued that the defendant was known to live in Spring Lane and had connections and family ties in Cork so he would not be leaving the area.
Det. Garda Motherway said gardaí would have significant concerns that he would return to this premises.
“If it would ease the State’s concerns he would be able to offer an address in the Tipperary area where a relative resides. At no stage was it put to him that there was any background issue between Mr McCarthy and the premises. It was a random occurrence, probably arising out of Mr McCarthy’s intoxication,” Mr Buttimer said.
Det. Garda Motherway said:
Mr Buttimer said: “Mr McCarthy asked me to say he would adhere to conditions — take himself out of Cork City, sign twice daily at the local garda station, keep a curfew, abstain from alcohol and give an undertaking to remain away from witnesses.”
Judge Philip O’Leary said: “I am satisfied to refuse bail based on the seriousness of the charges (and other factors).” The defendant was remanded in custody to October 15.
In terms of the seriousness of the case, Detective Garda Motherway said Steven McCarthy was socialising at the premises when he was asked to leave at 9.50pm.
“He left the premises after a verbal argument with a security guard and went to his car and retrieved a slash-hook and attempted to strike a security staff member with it. He disarmed Mr McCarthy and took the slash-hook but Mr McCarthy then retrieved an axe from his car and walked towards the security staff but did not attempt to strike them.
“Gardaí attended but Steven McCarthy had made good his escape. At approximately 10.50pm, Stephen McCarthy again returned to Murphy’s Rock, allegedly in possession of two plastic bottles containing petrol which he sprayed over the front of the premises before lighting it — resulting in damage to the outside and the interior of the premises.
“The premises had 40 to 50 patrons and staff inside at the time. Confronted by security staff, Mr McCarthy threw petrol at them at the scene and was held until the arrival of gardaí.
“He also attempted to set bottles alight but failed and continued to throw petrol over the flames. He allegedly had nine deals of cocaine valued €630 on his person when searched later,” Det. Garda Motherway testified.
