Kerry men charged over biggest crystal meth seizure in history of State remanded in custody
James Nathan (left) Leen And Mcdonnell
Two men charged with the biggest ever seizure of methylamphetamine, known as crystal meth, have appeared via video link before the scheduled sitting of Tralee District Court on Wednesday morning.
Both men have been remanded in custody for a further two weeks.
Nathan McDonnell, 43, of Ballyroe, Tralee, is charged that between October 27, 2023, and February 12, 2024, at Ballyseedy Garden Centre, Tralee, Co Kerry, he had in his possession methylamphetamine, with a market value of €13,000 or more, for sale or supply in contravention of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 and contrary to section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Acts.
James Leen, 41, of Pilgrim Hill, Kilmorna, Listowel, Co Kerry, is charged with the same offence.
He is further charged that on October 16, 2023, at Cork Port, Ringaskiddy, Co Cork, he did import methylamphetamine with a value of €13,000 or more contrary to section 15 B of the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Both men appeared before a special sitting in Tralee on Friday and were remanded in custody by Judge David Waters.
At 11 am on Wednesday morning, Nathan McDonnell appeared via video link from Portlaoise Prison. Dressed in a grey tracksuit, Mr McDonnell confirmed his name to the court.
His solicitor Padraig O’Connell greeted him and said: “This is not a private forum”, adding he would speak to him later in private.
Sergeant Chris Manton, prosecuting, said DPP directions were not fully available yet. This was because of the nature of the allegations and further charges were being considered.
The book of evidence would be a while yet, the sergeant expected.
The State’s application was for further remand in custody for two weeks.
Mr O’Connell said he would not consent to anything further than a two-week period in custody.
Judge John King remanded Mr McDonnell in custody to appear via video link at Tralee District Court on March 13 next. There was a bail application before the High Court, which might “ alter matters” — meaning he would be appearing in person on the date, Mr O’Connell said.
After some minutes delay, co-accused James Leen appeared via video link from Cork Prison.
He was dressed in grey and confirmed his name to the court and greeted his solicitor Pat Mann.
Judge King said the matter had been put in for the book of evidence.
Sgt Manton said the book of evidence was not yet available.
His application was for remand in custody to appear via video link on March 13 in Tralee District Court.
Mr Mann, solicitor for Mr Leen, said would be consenting to that but an application for bail had already been lodged in the High Court. If on bail, his client would have to appear in person.
Judge King remanded Mr Leen in continuing custody to appear at Tralee District Court on March 13.