Man sent forward for trial on charges of possessing guns in Athlone

By Dara Bradley

A Ballinasloe man has been sent forward for trial on charges of allegedly being in possession of guns and ammunition in Athlone.

Before Ballinasloe District Court on Thursday, October 22, was Damien O’Connor of Cúlán Esker Riada, Dunlo, Ballinasloe.

Garda Karen Fitzgerald of Moylough Garda Station confirmed she served a book of evidence on the accused, who faces four charges.

They include possession of a Side by Side shotgun and a Glock pistol at River Village, Tuam Road, Athlone, Roscommon on January 8, 2025.

The 47-year-old faces one count of being in possession of 18 rounds of 9mm Lugar Calibre ammunition and one round of 9mm Makarov calibre ammunition on the same date at the same location.

He also faces one count of possession of a Glock pistol or sawn-off shotgun at Garbally Demesne, Ballinasloe on December 27, 2024.

Garda Sergeant Christy Browne confirmed the DPP had consented to the matter going forward for trial in the higher court.

Judge James Faughnan gave an alibi warning, explaining to the defendant that if he wished to rely on an alibi in his defence, he would have to notify the state 14 days in advance of trial.

The accused was then remanded on bail to appear before Galway Circuit Criminal Court.