Saggart man allegedly punched taxi driver in face

By Brendan Grehan

A MAN who allegedly punched a taxi-driver in the face before stealing his car keys will face trial in the Circuit Court. Judge Patricia McNamara refused jurisdiction in Darren Casey’s case.

Casey, aged 33, with an address at Carrigmore Oaks, Saggart, is charged with assaulting the taxi-driver causing him harm, stealing his car keys and making off without paying for a taxi fare of €12.45 at Carrigmore Meadows, Saggart, all on April 2, 2015.

The case was before Judge McNamara to consider jurisdiction.

Judge McNamara noted that the DPP had directed summary disposal.

She said that it will be alleged that the taxi-driver had been driving Casey in his cab and brought him to his destination and asked Casey for the fare.

Judge McNamara said it will be alleged that Casey punched the taxi-driver in the face.

She added it will be alleged that Casey kicked and punched the taxi-driver and called him “terrible names”.

Judge McNamara said she did not consider the allegations against the court to constitute a summary offence.

She said taxi-drivers are providing a form of public transport and should be able to carry out their business without being assaulted.

She refused jurisdiction and remanded Casey on continuing bail for six weeks for service of his book of evidence.