In the Listowel Petty Sessions, presided over by Messrs. James Woulfe-Flanagan R.M., G. McKligott, E. J. Stack, and R. H. McCartay, a series of cases were brought before the court, including charges of larceny and violations of the Food and Drugs Act.

The first case involved a charge of larceny brought by District-Inspector McCauly on behalf of the King. The defendant, a tramp named John McMahon, also known as John McGee, was accused of stealing a number of items, including forks and spoons belonging to Mr J. D. Crosbie, as well as tea, bacon, sugar, a blouse, jacket, and a suit of clothes that belonged to Samuel McCormack. These items were allegedly taken from the residence of the Earl of Listowel at Gurtenard.

Samuel McCormack, the caretaker employed by Lord Listowel, testified that on the morning of the 17th of the month, his wife woke him up around half-past one o’clock. Upon going downstairs, he found the defendant in the kitchen with a lamp burning. When questioned about his presence, the defendant claimed he could not provide an explanation and identified himself as John McMahon from Limerick. Mr McCormack noticed that the defendant was wearing his boots. He attempted to escort the prisoner to the barrack gate, but the defendant managed to escape. Later, upon conducting a search of the house, Mr McCormack discovered that various items were missing, as described in the indictment. It was clarified that the stolen articles were neither Mr McCormack’s property nor that of Mr Crosbie.

Constable Crowley confirmed that he arrested the defendant in Abbeyfeale. The defendant did not make any statements to the constable but mentioned that he was drunk and did not remember the events in question. The defendant was subsequently remanded for trial.

Kerry Evening Star – Monday 30 July 1906