“I need the money” - A man (30) allegedly lunged across a shop counter with a syringe during a robbery in Louth

Dundalk District Court has heard how a man allegedly lunged across a counter and produced a syringe during a robbery at the weekend.

Sean O'Hanlon (30) with an address at the Simon Community, Barrack Street, Dundalk appeared before a special court sitting charged with robbing €242 from a woman at XL Stop N Shop on Jocelyn Street on Saturday, April 4th.

The contested bail hearing was told it's alleged the defendant had handed over a €2 coin after asking for a pack of rizzla papers and when the shop assistant opened the till, he allegedly lunged across the counter with a syringe and told her "I need the money. Give me the effing money" before grabbing €240 in cash and the €2 coin.

The court heard the syringe was dropped in the till and the accused ran off towards the cathedral.

He was subsequently arrested, wearing the same clothing, and he had €100 in €20 notes on his person.

The Defence solicitor said his client had a history of addiction and had been homeless for the last 10 years, and while he had made progress, he had a relapse.

He added that the defendant wanted to get out of Drogheda, but the solicitor said he had spoken to the Simon Community and his bed was no longer available.

Judge Stephanie Coggans refused bail and remanded him in custody to appear before Dundalk district court tomorrow (Wednesday) to appear by videolink.