DPP withdraws all charges against accused in Louth car damage case

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

A man charged in connection with several alleged criminal damage incidents in Ravensdale, Dundalk, including at the local parochial house, has been released from custody after the DPP directed that all matters be withdrawn.

James McArdle (32), 'Villa Isis', Doolargy, Ravensdale, Dundalk, had been on remand since he was brought before a special sitting of the district court in Drogheda on May 2.

He was accused of, on April 26 last at the Parochial House, Ravensdale, criminal damage of an Audi Q5, criminal damage by spraying graffiti on a wall and trespassing.

He was further charged with, on a date unknown between April 28 and 29 at Doolargy, Ravensdale, criminal damage of a silver Ford Focus and criminal damage of a grey Nissan Leaf.

On several occasions the case was adjourned for DPP directions.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - September 18th

In court on August 20, Gardaí again asked for more time, citing a delay with Forensic Science Ireland.

The matter was marked peremptory against the State and once more put back to September 17 for directions.

On Wednesday, when Mr McArdle attended in person before Judge Stephanie Coggans, court presenter Sgt Lisa McEntee said that the DPP directed all matters be withdrawn.