Newbridge man denies allegedly producing firearm near popular Kildare hotel

Gardaí claim that the alleged offence, which the defendant denies committing, took place on the grounds of the Keadeen Hotel. FILE PHOTOGRAPH.

placeholder image — Gardaí claim that the alleged offence, which the defendant denies committing, took place on the grounds of the Keadeen Hotel. FILE PHOTOGRAPH.

CONTESTED ACCUSATION

A man has denied ever producing a firearm while in the vicinity of a popular County Kildare hotel.

The accusation was made by gardaí present in Naas District Court on Thursday, May 16 last.

Marian Wiszniewski, with an address listed as 265 Moorefield Park in Newbridge, appeared before Judge Desmond Zaidan via video-link, as the defendant is currently remanded in custody.

DETAILS OF ACCUSATION

Gardaí allege that the 35-year-old produced a firearm while on the grounds of the Keadeen Hotel in Ballymany, Newbridge, on March 23 last.

However, upon hearing this allegation, which came before the court for the first time on the date in question, Mr Wiszniewski interjected by denying he ever produced the alleged firearm.

The accused’s solicitor, Brian Larkin, was also taken aback by this allegation: "This is the first time I’ve heard of this (allegation) too."

CASE ADJOURNED

Judge Zaidan adjourned the defendant’s case to Tuesday, May 23, to allow time for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

He remanded Mr Wiszniewski in custody until the case resumes.