Duo appear in court for Aughagower armed burglary

‘HORRIFIC’ A knife was used during a break-in at Keane’s pub in Aughagower (pictured). Pic: Google Maps


TWO males have been arrested and charged for what was described as a ‘horrific’ aggravated burglary in the village of Aughagower, close to Westport, last week.
Ryan Heraty (20) of Drummin, Westport, and a 17-year-old teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before a special sitting of Castlebar District Court last Saturday afternoon charged with a single count of aggravated burglary. Heraty was also charged with a further offence of burglary.
Inspector Denis Harrington told the court that it is alleged that between 8.30pm and 9pm last Monday evening, the two males entered Keane’s Public House, Aughagower, with their faces covered whilst the owner was inside watching TV. The pub has been closed to the public since last January/February.
One of the males was armed with a knife, and after threatening the owner, he took €25 in cash and the television set. While the owner of the pub was not seriously injured, he did have a ‘little nick’ on his face afterwards. The stolen property was stashed nearby and has since been recovered.
Inspector Harrington described the incident as ‘quite horrific’ and explained that the pub was located in a rural area, meaning the two accused had to travel there during the current movement restrictions. He added that the incident caused quite a shock to the injured party and to local residents.
Garda Leanne Nallen arrested the unnamed youth last Friday, before conveying him to Westport Garda Station. After being charged with the offence, the youth replied: “Can I get out on bail? My solicitor said I could.”
Garda PΡdraig O’Connor arrested Mr Heraty last Friday morning. Mr Heraty made no reply to the charge. The court heard that Mr Heraty is currently on bail for separate offences that are due to be heard on May 5.
Defending solicitor Mr James Hanley applied for bail for both the accused, and there was no Garda objection. Free legal aid was granted for both.
A number of bail conditions were set for both, including a curfew between 8pm and 12 noon every day; compliance with government Covid-19 regulations; no engagement with their co-accused and no contact with the injured party or any witnesses involved in the case; and abstinence from alcohol and drugs.
Judge Fiona Lydon remanded both accused on bail until June 11 for DPP directions.