Andrew Carey
A COUNTY Limerick man charged with three counts of arson causing thousands of euro in damage is to be sent forward for trial on what he described as a “moment of insanity”.
John Ryan (23) of Carraig Beg, Doon, is also facing a charge of theft along with the three charges of arson in the Doon, Cappamore and Oola areas last year.
“I’m sorry. A moment of insanity” was the reply he gave when he was charged with one of the counts of arson.
It is alleged that the attacks occurred last October, September and January.
He is charged with arson at Clonlusk, Doon where a farm shed containing a large quantity of bays of hay and two bullocks were set on fire.
On October 5, it is alleged that he also committed arson at Toomaline, Doon when he set fire at a hay barn where 150 bales of hay and straw, along with 100 bales of silage were lost.
The day after, it is alleged he set a blaze at Ballyvalode, Oola where a hay barn with 120 bales of hay and a car trailer were destroyed.
It is alleged that the total cost of the damage exceeded €90,000
The 23-year-old is also charged with the theft of €1,000 worth of assorted tools and farm equipment from a property at Dromalty, Cappamore on January 8.
At Limerick District Court this week, Judge Mary Larkin remanded him in custody until next month for the service of a book of evidence.
