Kerry judge denies bail for alleged car hijacker as defence argument is rejected
The KerrymanA judge denied bail to an alleged hijacker at Tralee District Court on Wednesday, after defence presented new evidence of his client’s mental health history before Tralee District Court on Wednesday.
A history of anxiety and engagement with Kerry Mental Health Services did not mitigate public safety concerns concerning the defendant, the court heard.
Volodymir Vorobiov (32) of 10 Ocean View, Portmagee appeared in a grey sweat suit for the renewed bail hearing.
He faces 10 charges from August 8, including seizing a vehicle by force, possession of an iron bar and scissors to damage property, criminal damage for breaking car windows, theft of car keys and possession of a metal bar capable of causing serious injury to another person.
Separately, he was charged with dangerous driving in Ballymacelligott on April 24.
A Ukrainian interpreter translated for Mr Vorobiov.
His solicitor Brendan Ahern said the judge had “left the door open” for bail at Mr Vorobiov’s last court appearance.
Mr Ahern presented a letter to the judge and said a GP confirmed his client’s engagement with Kerry Mental Health Services for anxiety. Mr Ahern also noted that his client had an appointment for his mental health the day after the offences.
The judge replied bail was initially denied because allegations indicated the defendant potentially “posed a danger to the public”, particularly women.
No conditions to the defendant’s bail could adequately address public safety concerns and this had not changed, he said.
“I have serious concerns with this man,” said the judge. “Saying he’s having treatment for anxiety and depression doesn’t address these concerns.”
At a minimum, granting bail would require a psychiatric professional to provide a convincing reason why the offence was unlikely to be repeated, said the judge.
A history of anxiety did not change this, he said.
“I believe this man is a risk and I would need more than this to address the State’s concerns,” said the judge.
The case has been adjourned to November 19 for directions from the Department of Public Prosecutions. The defendant will appear by video link.