Man (33) appears in court in connection with armed robbery of Longford pharmacy

Thirty-three-year-old Jamie Farrell, of 50 Glendallon, Ballytivnan, Sligo, was brought before a sitting of Longford District Court charged with carrying out a robbery at Gannon’s Pharmacy, Earl Street, Longford on August 15, 2023.

Farrell stands accused of stealing €20 worth of prescription tablets in the raid which lasted a matter of moments.

The accused, who is in custody on unrelated matters, was also charged with possession of an eight inch knife during the alleged commission of the robbery.

The incident took place at around 10am when a masked raider entered the store brandishing a knife before making a demand for cash.

Sgt Enda Daly, for the State, said the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had consented for the accused to be sent forward for trial to the circuit criminal court.

He added the DPP was also willing to allow Farrell to go forward on a signed plea “should that arise”.

Defence solicitor Fiona Baxter said there would be no application for bail at this juncture, but did indicate the likelihood of one being made once a book of evidence is served.

Judge Bernadette Owens remanded Farrell in custody, to appear at a sitting of Harristown District Court on Friday.