Further remand in custody for trio accused of Louth arson charges on IPAS centre

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

Three men charged in connection with a fire at an IPAS centre in Drogheda have been further remanded in custody for DPP directions.

The three accused appeared separately via video link at Drogheda District Court on Monday.

Josh Devlin (25), Dun Eimear, Bettystown, is charged with committing arson at the residential centre at George's Street, Drogheda on October 31, 2025.

Jonathan Judge (22) Irish Street, Ardee, is accused of committing arson with intent to endanger life at the centre on the same date.

Sean Everett (25), Harelawn Green, Clondalkin, and formerly of Hillview, Drogheda, is charged with arson.

Court presenter Sgt John O'Hehir requested a further four-week remand in custody.

Barrister Ronan O’Carroll, who represented Mr Devlin and Mr Judge, said he previously aired his concerns over the delay in obtaining directions.

He added that he simply didn’t know what the delay was. It “appears inevitable” what the directions will be.

Meanwhile, Mr Everett told the court that he wanted to change his legal team.

Judge Stephanie Coggans remanded the three defendants in custody to January 5 via video link for DPP directions, marking “time passing”.