Courts / Dublin / Report
Homeless arsonist caused €318k in losses while high on 'Up Johns'
Summary
David Canning, a homeless 28‑year‑old, set fire to a bag of clothes outside a St Vincent de Paul charity shop in Coolock Village Centre on 4 September 2017. The blaze spread to four commercial premises, causing €159,590 in damage and €318,000 in economic loss, and forced the evacuation of nearby apartments, though no injuries were reported. Canning admitted guilt to arson, citing family difficulties and the influence of benzodiazepines he referred to as "Up Johns." He had previous convictions but none for arson. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced him to six and a half years, suspending the final 18 months. The sentence reflected the significant risk and economic impact on the businesses, including the loss of jobs at The Discount Store and the prolonged closure of the charity shop. The case was prosecuted by John Byrne BL and defended by Luigi Rea BL. The incident was captured on CCTV, and Canning was arrested the same day. David Canning pleaded guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Homeless arsonist caused €318k in losses while high on 'Up Johns'. Charges or matters: arson at Coolock Village Centre, Coolock on September 4, 2017. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- September 4, 2017 Other
- 2020-12-07 Publication
Why: Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that although a number of nearby apartments had to be evacuated because of the fire, nobody was injured. Court evidence reported by CNI
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: arson at Coolock Village Centre, Coolock on September 4, 2017 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Canning to six and half years in prison and suspended the final 18 months of that sentence.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
Topics
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