A GLOCK semi-automatic pistol found when members of the Garda Emergency Response Unit stopped a car in Limerick was primed for use in a murder, a garda has claimed in court.
The evidence was heard at Limerick District Court yesterday during a bail application made on behalf of a man charged with possession of the weapon in suspicious circumstances.
Greg Crawford (21), St Munchin’s Street, St Mary’s Park, Limerick, is charged with possession of a Glock semi- automatic pistol and 12 rounds of ammunition at Athlunkard Road, Corbally, Limerick on May 4th.
When called to give evidence at Limerick District Court yesterday, Det Garda Thelma Waters said the State was objecting to bail because of the seriousness of the charge and the likelihood that more serious charges may follow.
The garda witness alleged that Mr Crawford was closely associated with one of the factions involved in a feud and that the weapon seized on the night was to be used in the commission of an offence, which she believed, to be murder.
Det Garda Waters said she believed that if Mr Crawford was granted bail he would continue to involve himself in the feud and claimed he had ready access to firearms. She said it was alleged that Mr Crawford was wearing protective gloves on the night he was stopped by members of the ERU travelling in a stolen car, and described the night in question as a “warm summer’s evening”.
Defence solicitor John Herbert said his client was willing to abide by any bail conditions set down by the court.
Judge Eamon O’Brien refused to grant bail because of the seriousness of the charge.