Man to face trial for alleged driving which created risk of death or harm

A man has been sent forward for trial on charges of driving in a manner which could have caused death or serious harm, assault causing harm and having a knife in the course of the assault.

Charlie McDonagh, 43, with addresses listed as Oak Lane, Billericay, Essex, London, and 42 Silver Woods, Ballybofey, was before Donegal District Court on Monday, February 24.

Garda Eoghan McAllister gave evidence of serving the defendant with the book of evidence ahead of his court appearance.

McDonagh is charged that on May 6, 2023  TJ Hughes Service Station, Cloghore, Ballyshannon, McDonagh assaulted Patrick Joseph Ward causing him harm. He is further charged that on May 6, 2023 at Straddle Service Station, Cloghore, Ballyshannon, he intentionally or recklessly engaged in driving a motorcar in a manner which created a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another. And he is charged that on the same date, he had possession of a knife intended to unlawfully assault Patrick Joseph Ward.

Inspector Sean McDaid told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) consented to the accused being sent forward for trial.

“The Director hereby applies for the accused being sent forward to the next sitting of Donegal Circuit Court sitting in Letterkenny, starting April 7,” he added. 

The defendant was represented in court by barrister Pat O’Sullivan acting for Morgan Coleman Solicitors. 

McDonagh was released on High Court bail of €10,000 own bond and a further €10,000 independent surety. 

Mr O’Sullivan told Judge Sandra Murphy: “The surety is approved by yourself. She is quite happy to have the bail.”

Judge Murphy granted legal aid to Morgan Coleman Solicitors and one junior counsel.

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