The highly anticipated Hilary Quarter Sessions began with Judge Adams presiding, accompanied by Mayor Michael Donnelly and High Sheriff Alderman P. McDonuodll. Notable magistrates, including A. Hill, J. H. Roche, Poole Gabbett, S. Lee, E. F. Hickson, and M., also participated. These sessions hold great significance, uniting esteemed judicial figures and local authorities to administer justice and maintain peace. With a commitment to fairness, Judge Adams led the court proceedings, while the presence of the Mayor and High Sheriff underscored the sessions’ importance in upholding law and order. The community eagerly awaits the outcomes, assured by the experienced panel of magistrates.

Moving to the first case, Anne Casey, a boarding-house keeper, pleaded not guilty to the charges of receiving stolen property. The specific items in question were three forks that belonged to Miss Fian, a confectioner on William Street. Mr P. O’Donnell acted as the prosecutor, while Mr Lynch, instructed by Mr P.J. O’Sullivan, served as the defendant’s legal counsel.

During the trial, it emerged that a witness named John Moloney had previously been convicted of stealing a dozen forks from Miss Fian’s establishment. Moloney testified that he had sold eight of the forks to the defendant in the morning and four in the evening, each priced at two pence. He also confessed to selling her a pound of stolen tea from a car on William Street.

Judge Adams questioned Moloney about his education, revealing that he had attended a Christian Brothers school. This led to a lighthearted exchange regarding the witness’s understanding of oaths and the consequences of lying.

After considering the arguments presented, Judge Adams voiced skepticism regarding the strength of the prosecution’s case, pointing out the absence of substantial evidence linking the defendant, Anne Casey, to the stolen forks. The judge even suggested that it might be more appropriate to charge John Moloney, the original thief, with receiving stolen property.

Taking note of the judge’s doubts, the prosecutor, Mr P. O’Donnell, decided to enter a nolle prosequi, indicating the withdrawal of the charges against Anne Casey. As a result, the court proceeded to discharge the defendant, who visibly displayed a sense of relief at the favorable outcome.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 05 January 1904