A Dublin-based solicitor was charged yesterday with theft and perverting the course of justice.

Dublin 7-based practitioner Cahir O'Higgins, 45, is accused of stealing €400 from a defendant on 30 July 2016, and on 8 and 17 December 2017, at a Londis shop in Parkgate Street.

Remanded

Judge Colin Daly yesterday remanded Mr O'Higgins in his absence to appear again at Dublin District Court next month.

Detective Garda Colm Kelly said that he arrested Mr O'Higgins at 2.28pm at the Bridewell Garda Station on 7 April where he was charged with five offences.

When charged, Mr O'Higgins replied "I am surprised at this allegation. I am not guilty. I will answer it at the appropriate time in court."

Trial on indictment

The Director of Public Prosecutions directed trial on indictment, so the case will be heard in the higher Circuit Criminal Court.

Defence barrister Karl Monaghan said he was required to put on record there was an issue with prosecutorial delay.