Bomb squad called after teen allegedly threw simulation grenade outside hotel
Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level
A young man has been accused of throwing a simulation grenade from a car outside a Dublin hotel, causing a bomb scare.
The Army bomb squad had to be called in after Patrick O'Brien (18) allegedly threw the device that went off with a 'loud bang' as people passed, a court was told.
He is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level.
Judge Áine Clancy adjourned the case at Blanchardstown District Court for the preparation of a book of evidence.
On examination the Army bomb squad found that the device was not viable. Photo: Stock image
Mr O'Brien, of Peamount Road, Newcastle, Co Dublin, is charged with possession of a CO2 cartridge grenade intended to intimidate, and throwing it.
Garda Sergeant Maria Callaghan said the DPP was consenting to the case being dealt with in the district court, subject to the issue of jurisdiction being considered. Judge Clancy asked for an outline of the prosecution's case so she could decide on the venue.
Sgt Callaghan said the incident was alleged to have happened at the Ibis Hotel, Monastery Road, Clondalkin, on February 16 this year. It was alleged the accused had arrived at the hotel in a pick-up truck and was seen throwing an item from the vehicle.
Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level
The object 'gave a loud bang' and witnesses who saw it said it resembled a grenade. It was found and the Army bomb disposal unit was called. When the item was looked at, it was thought it might be a grenade but following an examination it was deemed not to be a viable explosive device, the court heard.
It was found to be a Valkan Thunder V2 CO2 simulation grenade. Judge Clancy asked whether people were around at the time.
Sgt Callaghan said it happened at 5pm and there were witnesses who observed it being thrown, but nobody was harmed and there were 'no injuries or anything like that'.
Such an offence carries a maximum prison sentence of five years on conviction on indictment
The judge asked what size the simulation grenade was and viewed a photograph of it.
Defence barrister Mark McMahon said it was 'the size of an apple'.
Judge Clancy said she was refusing jurisdiction. This means the case will be sent for trial to the circuit court, which has greater potential sentencing powers.
A book of evidence is required before Mr O'Brien can be sent forward and the judge adjourned the case to July 8. She extended the deadline for service of the book and remanded O'Brien on continuing bail.
The accused has not yet entered a plea to the charge, which is under Section 9 (5) of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act and carries a maximum prison sentence of five years on conviction on indictment.
Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level
News in 90 Seconds - May 26th 2025
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