Alleged trespasser granted bail in Kerry after claiming landlord invited her
The KerrymanThe State has granted bail to a woman who says she was in her mother’s apartment to collect her clothing with the consent of the landlord.
Sorcha Burgess (50) of Raheeban, Croom, Kilmallock appeared before Judge Carol Anne Coolican at Tralee District Court.
She was charged with trespass and criminal damage to locks and a door valued at €200 at Park Lane, Tralee on September 15. She faced an additional public order charge of a entering the premises, or its vicinity, with the intention to commit an offence between August 18 to September 9.
Ms Burgess did not have representation due to the ongoing solicitors’ withdrawal of services over payment reforms to criminal legal aid.
“Will I be better off if I had representation?” she asked the judge.
“I don’t think there is anybody able today,” said Judge Coolican.
The judge said she would be as clear as possible should Ms Burgess wish to proceed with a bail hearing.
The State objected to bail, noting she had breached bail on four outstanding charges. Bail was previously granted on the condition that she stay out of Tralee, except for court appearances.
A garda cited the strength of the evidence, which she said included “excellent” CCTV footage and that the defendant was “caught red-handed and arrested at the scene”.
She noted concerns about witness interference.
“I believe if the accused is granted bail today, she will commit further indictable offences,” said the garda. “She has shown a complete disregard to court orders.”
Ms Burgess queried the CCTV footage.
“I find that very interesting,” she said. She told the court when she had previously reported a burglary at her mother’s residence, she was told CCTV footage did not work.
“So, I just find it funny they have perfect footage for me,” she said.
Ms Burgess said she had returned to the apartment to collect her clothing at the invitation of the landlord.
Her mother was not currently staying in the accommodation, she noted.
“The landlady had told me I could go back to the apartment where all my belongings are,” she said. “I have a text that can confirm this, it’s on my phone.”
She told the judge she would contest charges.
“I don’t accept that I’m a danger to the community,” she added.
Finally, she questioned the allegation of possible witness intimidation.
“I don’t know who they meant when they said interfering with a witness. Who are they referring to, specifically?”
She asked that an arrangement be made so she could collect her belongings.
“I believe it’s in the interest of justice that Miss Burgress is granted bail,” said the judge.
She is to reside in Croom and keep outside Tralee, apart from court appearances.
Sergeant Detective Chris Manton asked any arrangement with the owner of the property be made through legal representation.
Ms Burgess confirmed she understood bail terms.
“If you breach this, it’s likely to come back before the court,” said Judge Coolican.
She adjourned to October 14 for a plea or date.