By Ronan Judge

A 51-year-old man accused of drugs and money-laundering offences in Ballinasloe has been returned for trial to Galway Circuit Criminal Court.

Patrick Cawley, with an address at 63 Hymany Park, Ballinasloe appeared at Ballinasloe District Court where he was served with a book of evidence.

Garda Brid Fitzgerald gave evidence of serving the book and Sergeant Christy Browne told the court the Director of Public Prosecutions consented to the accused being returned for trial to Galway Circuit Court on December 2.

Sgt Browne confirmed to the court that the book of evidence contains four charges.

Judge James Faughnan delivered the alibi warning, telling the accused that if his defence in any way relies on an alibi then details should be supplied to the prosecution within 14 days.

Judge Faughnan made the order returning the accused for trial and granted legal aid for solicitor Tony McLynn and junior counsel going forward.

Judge Faughnan refused a legal aid application for senior counsel.

In the case, Patrick Cawley is charged with possession of cannabis and possession of cannabis for sale or supply at 63 Hymany Park on January 28, 2023.

He is also charged with an offence contrary to Section 15 (a) of the Misuse of Drugs Act.

That charge alleges that on January 28, 2023 at 63 Hymany Park, he possessed cannabis for the purposes of sale or supply at a time when the market value amounted to €13,000 or more. The court heard the approximate value of the drugs seized is €36,000.

Cawley is further charged with engaging in disguising the true sourcing / ownership of property that is the proceeds of criminal conduct, to wit cash, contrary to section 7 of the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act.

■ Funded by Courts Reporting Scheme.