Judge refuses jurisdiction in case of burglary at Waterford hotel
It is alleged that the defendant, who was wearing a balaclava and carrying knives, was observed opening guests' doors at Treacy's Hotel, pictured.
A judge at Waterford District Court has refused jurisdiction in a case where a man was arrested for breaking into hotel rooms while in possession of an imitation firearm.
Judge Kevin Staunton objected to the DPP instructions to deal with the matter by Summary Disposal.
“I am astonished that the DPP took the position it took, and I will, of course, refuse jurisdiction,” said Judge Staunton.
Bryan Law Jai Le, (25), of no fixed abode, was before Waterford District Court charged with several offences, including burglary, multiple counts of theft, handling stolen property and possession of knives.
Sergeant Michael Hickey told the court that on January 2, 2025, at around 11pm, gardaí were alerted to an incident at Treacy’s Hotel.
It is alleged that the defendant, who was wearing a balaclava, was observed opening guests' doors.
When gardaí apprehended the defendant, he was carrying a five-inch kitchen knife and a flick knife.
The court heard he was found with room card keys, one belonging to the hotel manager, and a pair of shoes a guest identified as their own.
The rooms the defendant was allegedly observed entering were occupied.
Acting for the defendant, solicitor Hilary Delahunty told the court that his client was given the room card keys and sent to the rooms.
He said this was planned by people “who were making little” of his client and that “trying to establish the logic of his actions was futile”.
The court was told that when he was arrested, the defendant was also found to be carrying an imitation firearm.
A file was sent to the DPP, who recommended summary disposal.
Judge Staunton put the matter back to May 27 for the serving of the Book of Evidence.
