Bail refused for Wicklow man accused of setting €50,000 vehicle on fire
The Wicklow PeopleA Wicklow man accused of setting fire to a €50,000 Ford Ranger has been refused bail.
Scott Murphy (35), with an address in Wicklow, appeared at a sitting of Bray District Court for a bail hearing charged with criminal damage by fire and burglary, with gardaí objecting to bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act 1997.
Sergeant Mick Dee said he was objecting to bail due to the seriousness of the charge before the court, the need for DPP directions and the fact the accused was at risk of receiving a custodial sentence.
On June 15, it is alleged that Mr Murphy entered The Sports Room in Wicklow town and stole a bicycle valued at €3,200.
Mr Murphy is further accused of setting a Ford Ranger, valued at €50,000, on fire, which “fully destroyed the vehicle”, outside a home address in Ashford.
The court heard the accused was allegedly identified at a nearby petrol station purchasing €2 worth of petrol.
It was noted that the bottle Mr Murphy allegedly used was found near the scene, with him also allegedly seen on CCTV running away from the scene.
However, he was arrested by Detective Garda Tighe O’Connor on June 17. Sergeant Mick Canavan remarked that the criminal damage charge is serious due to children being nearby at the time of the fire.
Solicitor for the accused, Dermot Hickey, said that Mr Murphy’s mother was present in court and willing to give evidence if needed.
He added that his client is engaging with Cuan Mhuire, but is awaiting confirmation of a place on a four-week programme.
Mr Murphy’s mother gave evidence that her son has sole custody of his son and that she was willing to allow him back into her home if he was willing to “keep away from the pubs”.
During cross-examination, Sgt Canavan said that allegedly setting a car on fire could have resulted in very serious consequences.
Judge Paula Cullinane refused bail, but informed Mr Murphy that he could make an application to the High Court. The defendant told the judge: “I just want one chance to raise my son.”
On Thursday, July 9, Mr Murphy further told the court said he is struggling to contact Cuan Mhuire, with prison officials informing the judge that he can make a request to the governor or chaplain to make extra calls if needed.