Athy, County Kildare robbery suspect has case sent forward for trial

An alleged County Kildare robbery case has been sent forward for trial.

Last month, Matthew Beckett, with an address listed as 1737 Church View in Nurney, but who is currently remanded in custody, appeared before Judge Desmond Zaidan in Naas District Court.

Gardaí alleged to Judge Desmond Zaidan that on February 4 last, the 31-year-old robbed another person of €100 in cash at a store located on Leinster Street in Athy.

The defendant also faces an allegation of committing assault causing harm against a person on July 7, 2021 in the Church View region.

Defending solicitor Matthew Byrne told the judge that his client is 'fully contesting' the accusations levelled against him by gardaí.

On the latest court date (Thursday, June 6 last), a book of evidence was served on the accused by gardaí, in relation to the alleged robbery case.

Further details about the case were heard as well: it was claimed that Mr Beckett allegedly committed a knifepoint robbery at the shop, and was assisted by a woman (the identity of this woman was not disclosed on the latest court date).

They allegedly proceeded to flee the scene on foot.

After the book of evidence was served by gardaí, Judge Zaidan sent Mr Beckett's case forward for trial to the present sittings of Naas Circuit Criminal Court.

The alleged assault causing harm case was adjourned by the judge to June 27 for mention.