Brothers Denied Bail on Serious Firearms Charges in Cork

Two brothers, Gary Walsh and Damien Walsh, have been denied bail following their appearance at a special sitting of the Mallow District Court in County Cork on Friday. The men face severe allegations related to firearms offences, including the possession and control of various firearms.

The charges stem from an incident on August 20, when Gardaí seized a .22 calibre long rifle and a 3D printed handgun during a vehicle search in Charleville. Gary Walsh, aged 40, was driving the car, with 32-year-old Damien Walsh as a passenger. During the search, Gardaí discovered a loaded 3D printed handgun positioned between the front seats near the handbrake.

Details of the Charges

Detective Garda James McCarthy, who provided evidence during the court session, detailed the arrest, charges, and cautions given to both men. He noted that neither brother responded to the charges when presented to them. Detective Inspector John O’Connell expressed concerns regarding the serious nature of the allegations, prompting Gardaí to object to the granting of bail.

Detective Garda McCarthy asserted that the State has video evidence and WhatsApp voice recordings on the accused’s phone that implicate Gary Walsh in sourcing and supplying firearms. The footage reportedly shows a person handling a firearm with a tattoo matching one on Walsh’s hand. Additionally, recordings capture a conversation in which Gary Walsh discusses supplying a gun to a third party, allegedly while Damien was present in the vehicle.

Defence Argument

In response to the allegations, defence solicitor Joe Cuddigan stated that Damien Walsh firmly denies any involvement in discussions regarding firearms supply. “My client asserts that he was not a party to any discussion about the supply of firearms to anyone,” Cuddigan remarked.

Judge Monica Leech ultimately ruled against granting bail, citing the gravity of the charges as her primary concern. Both men have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at the next sitting of the Mallow District Court via video link on next Tuesday.

The case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding firearms offences in Ireland, prompting further scrutiny and discussion regarding public safety and illegal arms distribution.