Donegal Garda on false information charge to face trial

A serving Garda who has been accused of giving false information is to be sent to stand trial.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed that Garda Ian Oates be sent forward to the Circuit Court.

Garda Oates’ case was before a sitting of Letterkenny District Court this week.

The 41-year-old is accused of an offence contrary to section 12(a) of the Criminal Law Act, 1976. He is accused that he did knowingly make a false statement, tending to show that an offence had been committed.

The date of the alleged offence is December 9, 2020 at a location unknown within the State.

Sergeant Gerard Dalton told the court that the DPP has directed that the matter be sent to the Circuit Court.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham adjourned the case until January 27, 2025 for the service of a book of evidence.

Garda Oates, who is stationed in the Buncrana Garda District, was not present when the case was heard. He was represented by his solicitor, Mr Patsy Gallagher.

The case is being prosecuted by the State Solicitor's Office and no details of the alleged offence have been given in court.

Legal aid was granted to Mr Gallagher.