Bail refused for Kerry resident accused of assault on garda and wine theft
The KerrymanA judge has denied bail to a Killarney man charged with two counts of theft and the assault of a garda.
Sunpreet Singh Hansra (33) of Linden House, New Road, Killarney came before Tralee District Court on three charges after alleged incidents in the town.
Mr Hansra is facing two theft charges including the theft of an €11.99 bottle of wine from Applegreen grocery in Clounalour, Tralee on August 1 and again on August 4, a garda told the court.
Following his arrest on August 4, Mr Hansra is alleged to have kicked a garda in the leg, which caused bruising leading to an assault charge.
The State said they were applying for Mr Hansra to remain in custody and were objecting to bail. Defence solicitor Brendan Ahern said he would be applying for bail for his client.
“The charges are evident and of a serious nature,” a garda told the court. He indicated the alleged thefts were recorded on “excellent quality CCTV”.
“It is my belief that if he is granted bail today, he will abscond,” said the garda.
The court heard that Mr Hansra currently has no fixed residence.
Mr Ahern disputed a claim that “has no ties to the area of Tralee or Ireland” and was therefore a flight risk, noting he was a long-term resident of Ireland.
“I accept that but the fact that he doesn’t have a permanent address is an issue,” noted the garda.
Mr Ahern noted that his client had been an Irish resident for ten years.
“I understand he’s in a difficult situation,” said Mr Ahern.
The judge stated, “there are certain issues for Mr Hansra regarding alcohol and residential addresses”.
“He has a disorganized lifestyle, I’ll put it that way,” said Mr Ahern. “I’m in your hands, judge.”
“I am operating this against the presumption of innocence on all three charges,” said the judge.
She denied bail and Mr Hanrsa was remanded in custody.
The case was adjourned to September 3, 2025.