A man accused of involvement in an arson attack that led to the “complete destruction” of an elderly couple’s home is “protesting his innocence,” a court has been told.
Paul McCarthy, residing at Dowth Avenue, Cabra in Dublin, appeared before Cork District Court, charged with arson at Fernbrook, Ballincrokig, Co Cork on April 24th.
The court previously heard that Mr. McCarthy, 37, is allegedly one of three men who travelled from Dublin to Cork to set the house on fire. Gardaí have also alleged that one of the men videotaped the arson attack and that the elderly residents were not the intended target.
Sgt. John Kelleher informed Judge John King that the fire caused €550,000 in damage, resulting in the “complete destruction” of the house.
He noted that Mr. McCarthy first appeared in court on May 7th in connection with the alleged incident and has been in custody since then.
Sgt. Kelleher stated that forensic results are pending following searches of two properties and requested a four-week remand in custody.
Defence barrister Nicholas Hall said his client maintains his innocence. He pointed out that the searches took place “early on” and requested the matter be expedited.
Judge King remanded Mr. McCarthy in custody until August 20th for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The accused will appear via video link on that date.
Garda Brian Murphy previously objected to bail when the case was initially presented at Cork District Court. He testified that on April 24th at 9 pm, a car arrived at the house in Ballincollig, and three individuals exited.
“Two entered the property’s grounds and ignited two glass petrol bombs with a blowtorch. They broke a bedroom window and threw the petrol bombs inside.”
“The third person – believed to be Paul McCarthy – stood near the vehicle and allegedly filmed the incident on his mobile phone.”
“The Skoda Octavia entered the Plaza filling station in Portlaoise just before midnight, where Paul McCarthy was identified filling the car with €30 of diesel and leaving without paying.”
Garda Murphy mentioned that an 87-year-old man and his 86-year-old wife were watching television in the house when the attack occurred. He told the court that the house was quickly engulfed in flames, but the couple were unharmed.
